![]() Some people don’t take proper care of their clocks, leading to damage or disrepair. After all, a clock built in 1820 that survived to the current day is way rarer than one built in the 1900s. If the clock is made of wood, brass, or porcelain, it’s more likely to be an antique.Īge is a massive factor in determining a clock’s value. Obviously, plastic is a no-go for an antique clock. Still, it’s important to be clear on the age of the clock you’re looking at, as it can affect its value.Ī first look at the materials used in the clock already give you some indication of the clock’s age. However, in the world of collectibles like clocks, the terms can be used somewhat interchangeably. Antique is generally defined as being at least 100 years old, while vintage refers to items that are at least 20 years old. Let’s start with the first categorization you’ll run into: antique vs vintage. Determining the Value of Seth Thomas Clocks Their stylish designs and reputation for quality make Seth Thomas clocks valuable collectibles that often sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars. While this may seem like the end of Seth Thomas clocks, the company’s legacy lives on through the antique clocks that are still highly sought after by collectors. ![]() In 1979, the company was sold to the Colibri Group, who eventually shut down Seth Thomas’ clock production completely in the 1980s. Additionally, the wrist watch had become a fashionable and convenient way to tell time, leading to declining sales for mantel and wall clocks. In the 1960s and 70s, Seth Thomas faced increasing competition from companies that were able to mass produce cheaper clocks using cheaper materials and less skilled labor. The company closed its doors in the 1980s, leaving behind a legacy of well-made and stylish clocks that still draw attention from collectors today. The company even hired renowned designer Samuel Sloan to create case designs for their clocks in the 1850s, adding to their appeal as collectible items.īut as with everything, time eventually caught up with Seth Thomas. Seth Thomas clocks were also popular for their decorative designs, often featuring carved wooden cases or ornate metalworks. Since clockmaking requires skilled craftsmen and polished materials, the city of Thomaston turned from a small farming community into a bustling clockmaking center during the company’s peak years. One notable clock tower was built for Madison Square Garden in New York City, which still stands today and is popularly known as the “Big Clock.” The company also produced massive clock towers for churches, government buildings, and train stations. In addition to the United States Navy, Seth Thomas also supplied clocks to other branches of the military, as well as various government buildings and railroad companies. This allowed for mass production of clocks, quickly making Seth Thomas one of the largest clock manufacturers in the United States.ĭuring the Civil War, Seth Thomas created clocks specifically designed for military use, as well as supplying wall and mantel clocks to both sides of the war. Seth Thomas owes its success to a massive breakthrough in clockmaking that happened in 1837, Sir Chauncey Jerome, who was employed by the company, invented a machine that could cut teeth in brass wheels. Seth Thomas refined his understanding of clockmaking in the early 1800s by working for Eli Terry, a company that had managed to mass produce clocks using interchangeable parts. The Seth Thomas Clocks company was founded by Seth Thomas, a clockmaker who learned the trade from his father. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what determines the value of a Seth Thomas clock and offer tips on how to start your own collection without getting frauded by counterfeit products. As with any collectible, the value of a Seth Thomas clock can vary greatly depending on its condition, age, and type. Their value can range from a few hundred dollars to thousands. If you’re wondering just how massive the company used to be, consider this: Seth Thomas was the official clock supplier for the United States Navy, as well as the creator of New York City’s famous clock tower at Madison Square Garden.īecause of the company’s history and popularity, Seth Thomas clocks have become highly sought after by collectors. Founded in 1813, the company produced clocks for over 150 years before eventually closing in the 1980s. One company, Seth Thomas, has been a popular choice for clock collectors. While back in their days they were mostly used for function, antique clocks have now become collectible items thanks to their vintage looks and history. Nowadays, we have digital clocks that can fit in the palm of our hand, but many still appreciate the beauty and craftsmanship of antique clocks. ![]() They have been used for centuries to keep track of time, a concept that has become integral in our daily lives.
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