Inquiry about Ansonia Schoolhouse Clock's Value on Tick Talk Tuesday #21
In the heart of a small community, a unique timepiece has found a new home. JM, a local collector, has recently added an Ansonia Octagonal Schoolhouse clock to their collection. The exact year of the clock's manufacturing remains a mystery, but it is estimated to have been made around the turn of the 20th century.
This American-made clock, manufactured by Ansonia, was once a staple in one-room schoolhouses, earning its name as the schoolhouse clock. It was purchased by JM for $500 back in 1975, not far from where they live. The clock's face is in good condition, and it continues its ordinary life after its use in a schoolhouse.
JM's collection of wall clocks has expanded with this acquisition. The clock, which is in good working order, also comes with the original description label in the pendulum area. However, it's important to note that the assistant advising on this matter is not a clock appraiser but has experience in buying and selling clocks.
The market value for an 1878 Ansonia Octagonal Schoolhouse clock in good condition typically ranges between $300 and $700. Factors influencing the price include condition, originality of parts, presence of the original label, and working order. Clocks well-preserved with original components and functioning movement tend to fetch prices at the higher end of this range. Conversely, those needing restoration or with replacement parts may be valued lower.
In the current market, which is generally in a depressed state, the assistant suggests a price range of around $125 for JM's clock. However, if the clock has special provenance, it might fetch upwards of $250.
Older readers recall one-room schoolhouses having a schoolhouse clock in the front or rear of the classroom. These clocks were instrumental in maintaining the rhythm of learning, keeping time for the young minds of the past. Today, they serve as a nostalgic reminder of a bygone era, a testament to the simplicity and practicality of a time when time itself seemed to move at a slower pace.
As JM continues to expand their collection, this schoolhouse clock stands as a valuable addition, not just for its historical significance but also for its potential value in the future. The assistant advises that, given its current condition and the market trends, it may not sell for the original purchase price. However, with proper care and maintenance, it could become a cherished piece in any collection.
This vintage Ansonia Octagonal Schoolhouse clock, now part of JM's collection, adds a touch of nostalgia to their lifestyle, being a blend of home-and-garden decor and fashion-and-beauty. Its value, estimated between $300 and $700 in good condition, makes it a worthwhile investment for wall clocks enthusiasts.
