Description

Ansonia Clock Co. “Reflector”, ca. 1883. This clock was apparently initially marketed in Europe, as the movement is marked with a “J” in a circled diamond, which can be attributed to the German manufacturer Wilhelm Jerger in Niedereschach, Germany. Jerger was in business from 1866 to 1914, and despite the logo imprint, this is clearly an Ansonia movement. This is an early Reflector, as later versions advertised beveled mirrors and gilt-embossed ornamental plates at the top and bottom. The design on the period door glass is as shown in the 1883 catalog, as are the gilt stencils on the top panel and bottom curved panels (and middle drawer to store the winding key). The 33-inch case appears to be mahogany, but we commonly see it in an ebony finish; there are two missing finials from the top of the crest, and the side mirrors may be modern replacements. The paper dial is darkly toned and unmarked, and there is a Vienna-style beat scale. The 8-day, time-and-strike movement is unwilling to run and will need attention – I think all it needs is a cleaning; it will strike on the cathedral gong. AAC sold a similar example in 2023 for $500. $350–$500. A big thanks to Colleen Houtz for previously identifying the J logo!

Record courtesy of AntiqueAmericanClocks.com