About the Seth Thomas “Garfield” Clock
Title: Seth Thomas “Garfield” Clock Model: A Collector’s Guide
The Seth Thomas “Garfield” Clock, introduced in the late 1980s, represents a unique fusion of antique craftsmanship and modern pop culture. This novelty clock is not a traditional mantel, wall, or regulator but rather a whimsical representation of the popular comic strip character Garfield by Jim Davis.
The “Garfield” Clock typically features a cast-iron case, capturing the essence of Seth Thomas’s commitment to quality materials and craftsmanship. The Garfield figure is often depicted sitting on a wooden ledge, with his characteristic round stomach and expressive face. The clock dial is usually surrounded by a decorative border that complements the overall design.
This model was produced during the late 20th century, making it a relatively recent addition to the Seth Thomas catalog. Despite its youth compared to other antique clocks, the “Garfield” Clock has become collectible due to its unique blend of art and humor, as well as its association with a beloved comic strip character.
Notable features of the Garfield Clock include the moving arms that mimic the cat’s movements when the clock strikes the hour or half-hour, adding an entertaining element to timekeeping. Additionally, some versions feature sound effects, such as Garfield growling or purring at specific times. These clocks are often sought after by collectors who appreciate both antique craftsmanship and popular culture references.
For antique clock enthusiasts with a soft spot for pop culture, the Seth Thomas “Garfield” Clock offers a delightful blend of tradition and humor. Its unique design, entertaining features, and association with a beloved comic strip character make it a collectible piece worth considering.
Auction Records and Price History
The following 27 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Seth Thomas “Garfield” model clock. Prices vary based on condition, originality, and current market demand. Search for more records on AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com.
Antique Seth Thomas Garfield Clock
Jan 2020 – 35
Antique American Clocks
Seth Thomas “Garfield”, 1886.
“Stately” is barely sufficient to describe this clock, 30
inches high in mahogany, with an old finish.
The top surface shows more wear, but all the finials are there.
The Garfield
came with nickel or brass trim and most collectors prefer the dial bezel, gong mount, pendulum bob and weights to match.
the catalog description from 1883 notes that it came with “Brass weights and bell nickel plated”, so matching was not a manufacturer
stipulation (See Ly,
Seth Thomas Clocks & Movements
, Vol. 2, page 727.)
Here we have all brass trim and weights with a damascened
nickel bob.
The dial has an old coat of paint, possibly original, that is chipping in places; the hands are correct.
door glass is wavy.
The signed movement is correct to this model and is running and striking without issue.
black label in the bottom.
Horton’s sold one last July for $1275.
$1200-$1600.
Retail: $950 | Date: 01/01/2020 | Source: AntiqueAmericanClocks.com
Antique Seth Thomas Garfield Clock
Jan 2020 – 100
Antique American Clocks
Seth Thomas “Garfield”, ca. 1883.
This classic, weight-driven shelf clock is 30 inches high, named
after the second US president to be assassinated, in 1881.
The case is walnut in an old if not original finish and with a nice
amount of “patina”.
The glass is original, the dial repainted long ago; the hands are original, as is the pendulum and bob.
The dial trim, weights, and damascened pendulum bob are nickel-plated; the weights and bob could use a bit of polish and the weights
do not match but I have been assured they are Seth Thomas issue (one hook has been changed).
A decent label inside on the bottom,
no date on the back of the case.
The movement is correct to this model and is running but would benefit from service.
Horton’s sold this clock in 2017 for $1525.
$800-$1200.
OVERVIEW PAGE
Retail: $800 | Date: 07/01/2020 | Source: AntiqueAmericanClocks.com
Antique Seth Thomas Garfield Clock
Jul 2021 – #33
Antique American Clocks
Seth Thomas “Garfield”, ca. 1883.
An impressive 30-inch mahogany case with an 8-day, weight-driven
A classic, always sought-after, and the match to the equally popular, but slightly more common Lincoln.
the finish is a bit worn and could benefit from a bit of rejuvenation, whether it is a fresh varnish or just a good waxing.
The door glass is old and likely original.
The dial is likely an old repaint as it lacks the ST logo; the hands are correct.
The ST A-frame movement is signed and running, striking the hours on the cathedral gong.
The pendulum bob is not correct.
The trim is nickel but the weights, which are not ST weights, are brass.
I can live with brass weights, but the bob has got
There are the required four pulleys but no label and no date on the back.
Can’t have everything, but you can have
this clock with the right bid.
These once sold for over $1000, but I think those days are gone.
$500-$1000.
OVERVIEW PAGE
Retail: $750 | Date: 07/01/2021 | Source: AntiqueAmericanClocks.com
C.1875, Seth Thomas, “Garfield’ in walnut and in excellent original condition.
Of the Lincoln-Flora-Garfield series, this is the hardest one to find in good condition. The original dial on this clock has a few flakes and touch-up spots; otherwise this is an exceptional clock with original damascene pendulum, pulleys, hands and hardware throughout. Runs. Height 24′
Sold: $1,700 | Date: 11/1/1999 | Source: R.O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1887, Seth Thomas Clock Co., “Garfield”, 8-day time and strike. 2- wt. shelf clock in cherry.
The case is in generally good condition with a little damage and roughness on the top edge and losses to the edges of the feet; two the dentil pieces are missing on the left and rigHeight side of the top (at the rear, doesn’t show badly). The dial has been professionally repainted. Finish on the case is original, hardware intact, and with good pattern on pendulum. The are the remains of a label in the bottom of the case. The weights are proper, with the hook to one having been repaired. This clock uses the same movement as lot 314 [Lincoln]. Height 29Ó $1,000-$1,250
Sold: $1,750 | Date: 11/3/2002 | Source: R.O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1885, Seth Thomas Clock Co., GARFIELD, 2-Weight shelf clock in walnut.
Condition: an extra clean example of the Garfield in excellent original condition, the case cleaned and waxed. Great original dial with only minor chips at the winding holes. Damascene nickel pendulum and nickel plated bezels. Weights are plain brass. Has a nice label in the case bottom. For detailed info on the movements and case interior, see Tran Ly’s 3rd Edition of the Seth Thomas book, pages 726 and 727, current price guide $2350. For those interested, this clock has been “Tannerized”, so you can expect it to look and run great. Height 29 inches [74cm]
Sold: $2,700 | Date: 4/22/2007 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1885, Seth Thomas Clock Co., GARFIELD, 2-Weight shelf clock in walnut.
Condition: an extra clean example of the Garfield with original finish on the case. Tasteful restorations include a professionally repainted dial, 4 of the top “dentil” pieces replaced, and the brass sheathed weights have been properly made to replace the originals; hands also replaced. Has great damascene pendulum. Movement is signed with Seth Thomas logo. See also lots 356 and 502. Height 29 inches [73.66 cm]
Sold: $1,400 | Date: 4/22/2007 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1885, Seth Thomas Clock Co., GARFIELD, 2-Weight shelf clock in walnut.
Condition: overall very good original condition, from a home, unrestored, the only shortcomings are 2 missing dentil pieces on top, rear, and some flakes and dirt on the original dial. With earlier style gong base. For detailed info on the movements and case interior, see Tran Ly’s 3rd Edition of the Seth Thomas book, pages 726 and 727, current price guide $2350. See also lots 356 and 381. Height 29 inches [74cm]
Sold: $1,250 | Date: 4/22/2007 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Clock Co. rare and unusual mantle clock, “Garfield”, ca 1883.
ST made the Lincoln and Garfield models to commemorate the only two Presidents to be assassinated at that time. The case styles are slightly different, but behind the door the internal parts are near identical. We have sold 2-3 dozen of the Lincoln/Garfield clocks and I want to tell you the factory did not use the same equipment on every clock. Sometimes you may have brass weights, a nickel pendulum, brass dial rings, or vice versa. 125 years ago the companies were not hung up on making every clock the same. This clock is correct and all original except the original metal dial has been repainted and the case cleaned and polished. The Garfield is 29″ high, made of walnut, and has a damascened pendulum, correct weights, hands, and all other accessories. The movement is 8 day, running, and striking on the heavy duty Cathedral gong. Ly-Seth Thomas, pages 726-727.
Sold: $1,627 | Date: 7/31/2010 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks
Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn., “Garfield” mantel clock, 8 day, time and gong strike, weight driven movement in oak case with painted metal dial, c1890
the case retains its untouched original finish with the rear left turret trim piece missing from the top. The dial is a replacement from another Seth Thomas clock that fits nicely. The weights and lightly damascened pendulum bob are original. Ht 29 1/2″
Sold: $900 | Date: April 22, 2012 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn., “Garfield” shelf clock with an eight day weight driven time and strike (cathedral gong) movement in an ebony finished case.
The overall case is in good condition with repair to the left rear foot and 2 (rear) top ornamental pieces missing (not noticeable from front): The dial has been repainted. The hands are original. The movement is signed. The damascening on the pendulum bob has significant wear. The door glass is original.
Sold: $750 | Date: April 29, 2017 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1880, Seth Thomas Clock Co, GARFIELD, 2-Wt, 8-day shelf clock in walnut and in very good condition with original finish.
The only restoration we can find is the dial which has been professionally painted. All of the little cut outs on top are intact and original. Retains orig weights and pendulum with damascene pattern. Movement does tick and strike but will require service before regular use, as clock has been in storage. Height 29″
Sold: $2,200 | Date: April, 2002 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1883, Seth Thomas Clock Co., “GARFIELD”, 8-day 2-weight, shelf clock in walnut.
Condition: about as good as it gets. There are a few minor flakes on the dial, and other minor edge nicks on the case, but overall excellent and original. Has good pendulum with damascene pattern. For details on this model, see Tan Ly’s book on Seth Thomas [3rd Edition], vol 2, page 726-727. This is the second one of these we’ve had with the feet on upside down, apparently from the factory. [Easy to re-do] Ly 2005 price guide $2250. See also lot No. 300. Height 29.7 inches
Sold: $1,800 | Date: April, 2008 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1880, Seth Thomas Clock Co., “Garfield”, 8-day 2-weight time gong strike shelf clock, from Dana’s basement ledge.
Condition: Cherry case in sound with original finish, but with replacements. Feet are not original. The left sidepiece on the base has been replaced. The top to the case was missing and has been replaced with a cove molding and flat top. Original painted dial is exceptional for its age. Hands are original. Pulleys are replacements. Nice damascene pendulum. Weights are original. The original backboard is missing its very back layer of veneer, and some ragged edges of the bits left. The original maintaining ratchet is in the bottom of the case, apparently replaced. Runs and strikes. Overall fair to good. Ht. 29″
Sold: $900 | Date: April, 2008 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas “Garfield” 2 Weight Clock
With an 8 day T&S, marked Seth Thomas movement and a marked paper dial. Has the pendulum and key. (The clock winds but will not run. It needs the suspension for both the pendulum and weights.) 28 3/4″ Tall
Sold: $775 | Date: Feb 01, 2014 | Source: Tom Harris
Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn., “Garfield” shelf clock with a weight driven, 8 day, time and strike movement with cathedral gong in an ebonized case
The case is in excellent condition with several very minor areas of wear to the ebonized finish. The original painted dial is in very good condition with several small areas of in-painting. The hands are original. The movement is signed. The brass pendulum bob is nicely damascened. The door glass is original. The case back bears the factory date of August, 1886.
Sold: $800 | Date: May 19, 2018 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn., “Garfield” shelf clock with a weight driven, 8 day, time and strike movement with cathedral gong in a cherry case.
This model in cherry was introduced in the 1888 Seth Thomas catalogue. The case is in excellent condition with very minor loss in several small areas, The dial has been repainted. The hour hand is original. The minute hand appears replaced. The movement is signed. The door glass is original. There is a minor repair to the left rear foot. The brass pendulum bob is nicely damascened.
Sold: $900 | Date: May 19, 2018 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn., “Garfield”, 8 day, time and strike, weight driven movement in a walnut case with painted metal dial, damascened nickel plate pendulum bob and brass weights, c1883
Walnut case in very nice condition in original finish. Dial has been repainted. Hands, pulleys and a very nice nickel plated pendulum are original. Movement is signed. Weights look to be original. Bottom panel in the base is loose and will need attention. Ht 29″
Sold: $1,400 | Date: May 4, 2013 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1886, Seth Thomas Clock Co., “Garfield”, 8-day time/strike shelf clock.
Condition: Walnut case is in exceptional condition with original finish. Original painted dial has some minor paint flaking, but is otherwise very nice condition for a Seth Thomas dial. Weights, hands and pendulum are original. The feet on this clock, while otherwise original, are upside down and may have come from the factory that way or someone reversed them; should not affect the value. For details, see Ly’s book on Seth Thomas, [1996], page 275; his volume 2 of the latest Seth Thomas book should be out this year. Height 29 inches
Sold: $2,400 | Date: May 7, 2005 | Source: R.O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1885, Seth Thomas GARFIELD, 2-Wt, time and gong strike mantel clock in walnut.
Condition: overall excellent. The case retains its original finish in good shape. The dial has been professionally repainted. Has original hands, weights, pendulum with remains of damasc pattern, and case hardware. For additional information on this model, see Tran Ly’s book on Seth Thomas, 3rd Edition, pages 726-727. Ly price guide for 2005= $2250. Label in case bottom. Ht 29″
Sold: $1,050 | Date: May 8, 2009 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1880, Seth Thomas Clock Co, “GARFIELD”, 2-Wt, 8-day shelf clock in walnut and in very good condition with original finish.
The dial has been professionally repainted; the clock is otherwise original. All of the little “fortress-like” cut outs on top are intact. Retains orig weights and pendulum with damascene pattern. This clock came to us from storage and the movement would benefit from a cleaning. Height 29 inches
Sold: $2,500 | Date: May 8th, 2004 | Source: R.O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn., “Garfield”, 8 days, time and strike, weight driven shelf clock in walnut case, c1884.
Case has been refinished. Feet have been re-glued to case. Dial appears original with very minor flaking near center arbor. There are a couple of minor dents on the base molding. Nice original re-glued plated bob. Hands are old and perhaps original as some of these did not have the fancier hands. Includes a shelf. Ht 29″.
Sold: $1,300 | Date: October 26, 2014 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn. “Garfield”, 8 day, time and strike weight brass movement shelf clock.
Walnut and walnut veneered case in original finish has some veneer loss on the base. The feet are currently mounted upside down. Original painted dial has a small chip and some surface stains. Original hands and pendulum with some loss to the nickel plating. The crenellated parapet top has some merlons missing on the left side and one on the right. Brass cased weights appear original.
Sold: $600 | Date: October 27, 2018 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn., “Garfield”, 8 day, time and strike weight brass movement ebonized case shelf clock.
The overall case is in good condition with splits in the veneer on the left side and a veneer piece missing. The right side has a veneer split as well. The feet are unusual in that they are not the typical design used on this clock. Original dial has been repainted. Original hands. One of top ornamental pieces is missing on the right side. The dial has been repainted. The hands are original. The movement is signed.
Sold: $700 | Date: October 27, 2018 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn., “Garfield” shelf clock with a weight driven, 8 day, time and strike cathedral gong movement in a walnut case.
The case is in overall excellent condition with a very small area of loss on the right front case foot. The case finish is original. The hands are original. The dial has been professionally repainted. The movement is signed. The door glass is original.
Sold: $1000 | Date: October 27, 2018 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn., “Garfield”, 8 day, time and strike weight driven shelf clock, c1883.
Walnut case in as found condition in original finish with some worn areas. There is some damage to the veneer on the base. Original painted dial is very nice for its age. Hands and pendulum are original. Movement is signed. Ht 29″
Sold: $900 | Date: October 28, 2012 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn., “Garfield” mantel clock, 8 day, time and strike, weight driven movement in a walnut case with painted metal dial, damascened nickel plate pendulum bob and brass weights, c1890
the case retains its original untouched finish with normal wear. The dial is repainted. Weights have replaced hooks and one missing bottom cap. Ht 30″
Sold: $1,500 | Date: October 28, 2012 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
