Expert: William J Perkins - 3/10/2009

Question
QUESTION: Seeking help in determining the approx. manufacturing date for an ANSONIA  “La Rambla” clock
The trademark is Royal Bonn, Germany with a barely distinguishable number within the crest 1765 (not certain of the 6).  The bottom of the case is marked:   5271/I
         61
The case is blue with flowered pattern.
Back plate of clockworks is stamped Patented July 18, 1882 & 4-1/2 (model ??), along with
ANSONIA CLOCK CO.  USA  NEW YORK.  Inside mounting bezel for mounting the works is stamped Pat. AUG. 16TH 1885.


ANSWER: Your clock was most likely produced around 1901, which would make it a genuine antique.  i.e., over 100 years old.  I would have to0 examine then clock myself to make a definative judgement.  Regards WJP

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: What do the numbers in the crest & on the bottom of the case represent?  Also, the the character following 5271/ is roman numeral 1, & the 61 is directly below the 71.

Answer
Since donating most of my horological library, I no longer have available to me books related to this subject, for conducting research.  The imprints you find on your clock case are those used by Royal Bonn to identify the case, when it was made and the primary artist doing the art work.  If memory serves me correctly, such data was addressed by Ansonia in one of its supplemental catalogs, perhaps 1895.  I would suggest you seek out this catalog, your public library might be able to help.  I would also suggest you contact the library of the National Association Of Watch And Clock Collectors.  They are on the internet, I believe as <NAWCC.com>   I wish you luck. WJP