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Ansonia Alarm Clocks
Historical Background
The 1880 catalog shows the following types of clocks: tin can alarm, novelty, carriage, black enameled iron, statues, swing, walnut parlor and kitchen, misc. wood case shelf, OG, crystal palace, wood case pendulum wall, octagon lever wall, regulators, street & tower.
This indicates that Ansonia was producing "tin can alarm" clocks as early as 1880, placing them among their diverse product line.
The Revolutionary Illuminated Alarm Clock (1875)
An illuminated alarm clock with a walnut veneer case based on a 30-hour timer and a spring-driven illumination system was later developed by the company in 1875. As a result of the alarm, a match ignited a wick, creating light for the clock.
This was a remarkable innovation for its time - an alarm clock that literally lit up when it rang, using a spring-driven mechanism to ignite a match and light a wick. This allowed people to see the time when awakened in the dark hours before electric lighting became common.
Types of Ansonia Alarm Clocks
"Tin Can" Alarms
These were simple, utilitarian alarm clocks with basic metal cases. They represented Ansonia's entry-level alarm clock production and were designed for affordability and functionality.
Bell-on-Top Alarm Clocks
This is the Ansonia Bee model alarm clock dating from the late 1800's with the very desirable bell alarm on the top. The clock runs and stops and the alarm works. This clock will need to be oiled or cleaned to run consistently.
The "Bee" model and similar designs featured the classic alarm clock configuration with a large bell mounted on top of the case, which was struck by a hammer when the alarm triggered.
Bedside Alarm Clocks
Ansonia produced crystal regulator clocks, statue shelf clocks, bedside alarm clocks, clocks under glass domes, mantel clocks with cases made from iron and other metals, calendar shelf clocks, mahogany cased cabinet clocks, steeple clocks, shelf clocks with oak or walnut cases and a wide range of novelty shelf and wall clocks.
This indicates Ansonia produced specific models designed for bedside use.
Wooden Case Alarm Clocks
Ansonia antique American alarm shelf clock in walnut case with floral painted glass, 19th century, bearing original paper label, unusually small size 30 cm high.
Some alarm clocks featured more decorative wooden cases with painted glass panels, elevating them beyond simple utilitarian designs.
Characteristics of Ansonia Alarm Clocks
Movement Type
30-Hour Movements:
- Most Ansonia alarm clocks used 30-hour spring-driven movements
- Required daily winding
- Simple, reliable mechanism
- Time-only with alarm function (no striking hours)
Case Materials
- Tin/Metal cases - "Tin can" style, painted or japanned finish
- Walnut cases - More decorative models with veneer
- Oak cases - Medium-grade models
- Nickel-plated cases - Later production, more durable finish
Size
Unusually small size 30 cm high.
Ansonia alarm clocks were typically compact, ranging from approximately:
- Height: 10-30 cm (4-12 inches)
- Designed to fit on nightstands and small spaces
Dial Features
- Simple white dials (paper or metal)
- Arabic numerals (most common for alarms)
- Alarm setting dial (separate smaller dial or pointer)
- Clear, legible numbering for nighttime visibility
Bell Configuration
The most distinctive feature:
- Large brass bell mounted on top
- Twin-bell design on some models
- Loud, mechanical ringing suitable for heavy sleepers
- Hammer mechanism activated by alarm train
Glass/Crystal
- Front glass protecting dial
- Some models had decorated glass panels
- Generally functional rather than ornate
Production Period
Ansonia alarm clocks were produced throughout the company's operating years:
- Early production: 1875-1880s (including the innovative illuminated model)
- Peak production: 1880s-1920s
- Decline: 1920s as competition intensified
Notable Models
"Bee" Model
- Bell-on-top configuration
- Late 1800s production
- Named for its busy, reliable nature
- Simple but effective design
Illuminated Model (1875)
- Walnut veneer case
- 30-hour movement
- Spring-driven match-lighting mechanism
- Revolutionary for its time
Marketing and Distribution
Under the leadership of its founder, Anson Greene Phelps, the Ansonia Clock Company quickly became one of the largest clock manufacturers in the United States. The company produced a wide range of clocks, from cheap and simple models to expensive and ornate ones.
Alarm clocks represented the "cheap and simple" end of Ansonia's product line, designed for mass market appeal and affordability.
Quality and Durability
While Ansonia alarm clocks were generally well-made, they represented utilitarian timekeeping:
- Reliable movements but not highly decorated
- Durable cases but not luxury materials
- Functional design prioritized over aesthetics
- Typical service life of several decades with proper maintenance
Collecting Today
Ansonia alarm clocks are:
- Relatively common and affordable for collectors
- Valued for historical interest and mechanical appeal
- Bell-on-top models particularly desirable
- Original labels add significant value
- Working condition important for value
- The 1875 illuminated model would be extremely rare
Summary
Ansonia alarm clocks represent practical, affordable American clockmaking from the late 19th through early 20th centuries. Characterized by simple 30-hour spring-driven movements, tin or wooden cases, large bells mounted on top, and straightforward functionality, these clocks served millions of American households. The innovative 1875 illuminated alarm clock with its automatic match-lighting feature showcased Ansonia's creative engineering, while the simpler "tin can" alarms demonstrated their commitment to producing affordable timepieces for everyday working people. Models like the "Bee" with bell-on-top configuration remain the most recognizable and collectible today.
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