About the Seth Thomas “Austin” Clock
Title: Seth Thomas “Austin” Clock Model: A Collector’s Guide
The Seth Thomas “Austin” clock, introduced in the late 19th century, is a quintessential example of American craftsmanship and ingenuity. This model belongs to the mantel clock category, designed to gracefully stand on a tabletop or mantelpiece, adding an air of elegance and sophistication to any room.
The “Austin” clock is characterized by its distinctive case materials and design. The case is typically crafted from walnut, cherry, or mahogany, with intricate inlays and veneers that showcase the meticulous attention to detail for which Seth Thomas was renowned. The dial, often featuring a Roman numeral time track, sits within a brass bezel adorned with a finely etched surround.
Produced between 1874 and 1900, the “Austin” clock is a collectible piece from the Golden Age of American clockmaking. Its value as an antique clock increases due to its exceptional craftsmanship, rarity (particularly in pristine condition), and historical significance.
Notable features of the Seth Thomas “Austin” clock include a Westminster chime movement, a pendulum visible through a glass panel, and an elaborate weight-driven mechanism. The clock’s reliability, as well as its ability to capture both the practicality and artistic beauty of the Victorian era, make it a must-have for any serious antique clock collector.
While prices for antique Seth Thomas clocks can vary greatly based on condition, rarity, and restoration work, the “Austin” model consistently commands a premium due to its desirable features and historical significance in the world of American horology.
Auction Records and Price History
The following 2 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Seth Thomas “Austin” model clock. Prices vary based on condition, originality, and current market demand. Search for more records on AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com.
Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn., “Austin” City Series mantel clock in walnut. 8 days, time and strike, (cathedral gong on hours and half hours on a bell), c1885.
Walnut case in original finish with a horizontal shrinkage crack in the center panel. Some damage and veneer loss on both the top and bottom of the case. Original signed porcelain dial with some loss around the winding arbors. The hands are mismatched. The pendulum is from a French clock and the the case backboard is not original. Ht 15.5″
Sold: $275 | Date: April 27, 2014 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn., “Austin”, city series mantel clock in walnut, with Roman numeral white enamel dial, and 8 day time and strike movement
case in an old finish, minor marks and scratches, a few minor flakes, small veneer loss at lower left, small replacement at upper right, case front with split, dial with a few hairlines, and minor flakes at winding arbors, excellent label, replaced pendulum, ticks and strikes
Sold: $325 | Date: October 22, 2016 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts