Beautiful clock Derek,but I was just curious,How much would you estimate that particular clock weighs?From the description it sounds like it has a bit of heft to it. As I stated,just curious. Sincerely,Bob Fullerton
Posts: 181 | Location: New Castle, Delaware U.S.A. | Registered: December 15, 2004
Bob, that is an interesting question. I have added an image of one of the clock posted and it is a fairly common representation of the back of these types of clocks. I'm not sure the weight of these clocks, probably 3 to 8 pounds depending on the case size. You wouldn't want one to fall from a shelf and hit you, I do know that.
The movement, gong and labels are normally housed in a simple pine box that is attached to the cast iron front by 3 to 4 screws placed thru tabs cast into the back of the front plate. The front iron clock face can be cast from an ornate mold or something simpler.
Some of our more knowledgeable experts may be able to shed some light on why this clock came into style and then disappeared? I believe that this style clock was in vogue for only a short period of time, 10 years or less.
Beautiful iron fronts Derek! I love the animal scenes. That mother of pearl touch was pretty common on the iron fronts. I am not sure why. I have a couple of iron fronts, but on their best days they can barely remember being in that good condition!
Great post. Let's see some more!
Tom
Posts: 2537 | Location: Mount Angel, Oregon in the U.S.A. | Registered: November 19, 2002
May not be everyone's cup of tea but I recently picked up another painted iron front and thought I would post a picture. It is a Bristol Brass eight day time and strike. There's been a little paint touch up here and there but not much. Overall a pretty nice example of this type of clock.
Here is another "Iron Front" I own. I am seeking some info on this one. It stands 22" tall and has an unsigned eight day movement, the clock contains a Bradley and Hubbard label. This clock is shown in Brooks Palmers "Treasury of American Clocks".Looking at the upper right and left portions of the clock figures of a man and woman can be seen. On the left side they are embracing and on the right they seem to be parting company. I am looking for the possible name of this clock or if any one can attach some significense to the figures.
Posts: 25 | Location: Centereach, New York, USA | Registered: May 18, 2003
Derek, In respone to your April 11th post.... (It takes me awhile to think about things.....)I think that cast iron and other metals was "the thing" at that time. Toys, banks and just about everything was being made in cast iron. I would consider it a "fahion fad" clock, kind of like the starburst of the 70s.
Tom
Posts: 2537 | Location: Mount Angel, Oregon in the U.S.A. | Registered: November 19, 2002
Ansonia Brass & Battery Company "Pewter" iron front with 8 day movement. You see these around but I thought it might be of interest with the brass advertising label still attached.
I recently purchased this clock with 3 sides of iron and the back of wood. It is an Ansonia with open escapement. I believe the case is by Muller as I have also seen American Clock Co. and Kroeber clocks using the same case. It is called Lady and Child or French #111. My question: Is this considered an ironfront even though three sides are iron?
Beautiful clock. I believe that is a step above the iron fronts. Even with the wood back, I would think that would be considered a cast iron clock. Love the visible escapement. Do you know who made the movement?
Tom
Posts: 2537 | Location: Mount Angel, Oregon in the U.S.A. | Registered: November 19, 2002
The movement is Ansonia Clock Co. patented June 14, 81 New York. Didn't know anything about that type of clock but thought it looked pretty good. Also bought a Sessions calendar regular--both for $275 at a local estate sale. Will attach the Sessions photo also.
Two very nice clocks Pattye. (Good prices also.) It was interesting to see the slight variations on the case in the Kroeber and Ansonia books. Neither identical to yours. Obviously made by the same casemaker. Maybe someone has one of the other variations.
Tom
Posts: 2537 | Location: Mount Angel, Oregon in the U.S.A. | Registered: November 19, 2002
Tom: The 1984 Price Guide to Antique Clocks by Ehrhard shows a Mueller model called "French" which is also very similar. They are, indeed, interesting. Pattye