About the Seth Thomas “Empire No. 303” Clock
Title: Seth Thomas “Empire No. 303” Clock Model: A Collector’s Guide
The Seth Thomas “Empire No. 303” clock is a renowned mantel clock model that showcases the company’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship. This antique timepiece, produced during the late 19th century (approximately 1876-1900), belongs to the prestigious Empire line of clocks, a series introduced by Seth Thomas in the mid-19th century.
Typically crafted from richly grained walnut or mahogany woods, the “Empire No. 303” features an intricate and elegant design that reflects the Victorian era’s aesthetic sensibilities. The clock’s case is adorned with ornate carvings and banding around its base, middle, and top sections, creating a grandiose appearance. The dial, enclosed within a convex glass panel, displays Roman numerals and features decorative spandrels on either side.
What makes the Seth Thomas “Empire No. 303” clock collectible is not only its exquisite design but also its exceptional mechanical precision. This mantel clock boasts a time-and-strike movement that chimes the hours and half-hours, adding an auditory element to the visual appeal of the piece. Notable features include a brass-faced pendulum bob suspended from a heavy, polished brass rod, as well as a weight-driven mechanism that provides consistent timekeeping for over eight days without winding.
Collectors appreciate the “Empire No. 303” not only for its aesthetic charm and historical significance but also for its robust construction and reliable operation. As with any antique clock, condition, originality, and provenance play significant roles
Auction Records and Price History
The following 1 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Seth Thomas “Empire No. 303” 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., for A. Stowell & Co., crystal regulator, “Empire No. 303”, Arabic numeral silvered dial, blued steel hands, round 8 day time and strike movement, with simulated mercury pendulum, c1920
case with spotting, scratches, and polish residue, beveled glasses good, dial with scratches and a few spots, hands good, movement runs, striking will need work, rack hook does not engage rack and so strikes until spring runs down, pendulum good, Ht 9 5/8″
Sold: $150 | Date: October 26, 2013 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts