Schoolhouse Clock in Ansonia: Initial Evaluation
In the heart of a quaint town, a treasure was discovered eight years ago – an Ansonia drop octagon clock, a relic hailing from the late 19th century. This clock, now a cherished possession, transports its owner back to their childhood memories of one-room schoolhouse clocks.
Ansonia drop octagon clocks, produced primarily in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, are mechanical timepieces built to last well over a century if properly maintained. With appropriate care, an Ansonia drop octagon clock from around 1895 or 1912 can remain operational for more than a century.
The mechanical nature of these clocks means the movement is designed for longevity, but it requires periodic servicing. Over decades, common issues may arise such as worn bushings and pivots, dried or dirty lubrication, mainspring fatigue or breakage, balance wheel or pendulum issues, case and dial wear, and escapement wear.
To address these issues, it's recommended to have the clock serviced by a qualified horologist familiar with antique clocks. Regular servicing (cleaning, lubrication, inspection) every 5-10 years extends lifespan and performance.
The author's Ansonia drop octagon clock, made in 1895, has not been serviced, and some components are showing signs of wear. The T3 bushing on the front plate is the worst and has created an oblong hole. There is also serious lateral movement in some pivot holes. Despite these challenges, the author is considering expanding their collection of wall clocks, drawn by the simplicity of time-only movements.
The Ansonia octagonal short drop, also known as a schoolhouse clock, got its name due to its common placement in one-room schoolhouses. These clocks, with their distinctive design and robust construction, have become symbols of a bygone era.
As the author delves deeper into the world of antique clocks, they are reminded of the ordinary life these objects once led. The ticking of the Ansonia drop octagon clock serves as a testament to their enduring legacy, a silent witness to the passage of time.
The author estimates the manufacturing date of the clock to be around the turn of the 20th century and acquired it in April of 2016. The next step is cleaning the movement, and with the help of a skilled horologist, the clock will regain its original charm, ready to keep time for many more generations.
Vintage Ansonia drop octagon clocks, like the author's 1895 model, require periodic servicing to maintain their longevity, despite their durable mechanical design. As the author expands their collection, they will also consider potentially acquiring wearable gadgets and technology, to complement their appreciation for clocks. Intriguingly, these modern devices, unlike the antique Ansonia drop octagon clocks, could be considered part of the technology sector, whereas clocks such as these are often classified as historical gadgets.
