About the Seth Thomas “Athens” Clock
Title: Seth Thomas “Athens” Clock Model: A Collector’s Guide
The Seth Thomas “Athens” clock, introduced in the late 19th century, is a captivating mantel clock that has become a coveted piece among antique clock collectors. This exquisite timepiece showcases the exceptional craftsmanship and design aesthetics of the renowned Seth Thomas Clock Company.
The “Athens” model is characterized by its ornate case, typically crafted from walnut or mahogany, two popular choices for their rich colors and durability during this era. The design features intricate carvings, including a fretwork lower section and a finely detailed pediment with drapery at the top. The dial, available in both silvered brass and enamel varieties, is adorned with Roman numerals and a seconds hand.
Produced between 1876 and 1900, the “Athens” clock was part of Seth Thomas’s extensive line of high-quality mantel clocks during the Victorian period. Its collectibility stems from its striking design, exquisite craftsmanship, and rarity compared to more common models.
Notable features of the Seth Thomas “Athens” clock include a weight-driven Westminster chime movement that strikes on the hour and half-hour, as well as a spring-driven time-only movement for silent operation when desired. The clock’s pendulum is visible through the lower fretwork section, adding to its overall appeal.
The Seth Thomas “Athens” clock offers antique clock collectors an opportunity to own a stunning example of American craftsmanship from the Victorian era. With its ornate design, exceptional quality, and distinctive features, this model remains a sought-after addition to any antique clock collection.
Auction Records and Price History
The following 8 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Seth Thomas “Athens” model clock. Prices vary based on condition, originality, and current market demand. Search for more records on AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com.
Antique Seth Thomas Athens Clock
Jul 2020 – 234 Antique American Clocks Seth Thomas “Athens”, 1887. This is a slight variation of the Athens city series model – the door frame at the top differs from the catalog illustration by missing some arched trim. The case is walnut, nicely cleaned, 17 inches The door glass is old, the stained paper dial an old replacement; remains of the original painted dial are on the back of the dial pan. The ST 8-day, time-and-strike movement is running and striking, the pendulum bob is ST issue, and there is an alarm (untested). There is a black label inside on the bottom and the date of manufacture is stamped on the back.
Retail: $76 | Date: 07/01/2020 | Source: AntiqueAmericanClocks.com
C.1886, Seth Thomas “Athens’, as-found, less top trim (simple angle top with button), and less the quarter molding at top of door, minus a piece of veneer; and with the dial center flaking badly.
Also clock has a fancy gong by G.B.Owen, probably from a Gilbert clock. Large ST lyre movement intact; restore or use for parts; height 15.5′
Sold: $100 | Date: 11/1/1999 | Source: R.O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1880, Seth Thomas, ATHENS, 8-Day time and bell strike mantel clock in walnut.
Condition: the case has the remains of an old finish; the door has a dry split above 11. The dial has been repainted by the Dial House. Movement is signed and proper for the case. Hands, pendulum, bell and hardware are original. Good label in case bottom. Ly 2004 price guide when original = $350. Height 17 inches [43cm]
Sold: $160 | Date: 4/22/2007 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas “Athens”, C. 1886, an early City Series clock.
This is a rather plain walnut case, all original finish, would improve greatly with a cleaning, stands 17″ high. Everything is original, dial with just a little flaking problem, good black label in the base, good nickel pendulum with ST embossed in the center, nickel bell on which the alarm strikes as well as the hourly strike. There is a brass dial ring as well as a brass alarm ring in the center of the dial. The only shortcoming of the clock is a piece of molding is missing above the glass, inside the door. Minimum price is reflecting the expense to repair. Ly-Seth Thomas #166.
Sold: $197 | Date: July, 2004 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks
Seth Thomas City Series clock, the “Athens”, ca 1886.
The 17 inches high walnut case doesn’t look like it has ever been touched, it is very dark, has crazed paint, and that presents another challenge for a refinisher. It would be a might fine case if cleaned because the nickel accessories, and probably the best, original dial, I have ever seen on a City Series clock would set this clock off perfectly. Usually the dials have been repainted by now, or should be. The Seth Thomas “Star” pendulum, on this clock, only came with the No.3 Fashion, the Nashville, and New Orleans. This is their one day model made back in the days when there was nothing else to do after dark but wind your clocks. Ly-Seth Thomas #166.
Sold: $116 | Date: June, 2004 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks
C.1880, Seth Thomas Clock Co., “Athens”, City series walnut mantel clock, 8-day.
Condition: Walnut case in overall nice condition with old finish. Original dial is nice for its age. Hands and pendulum are original. Remains of label in bottom of case. Ht. 17″
Sold: $125 | Date: May 8, 2009 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Clock Co., “ATHENS” from the City series, walnut cased shelf clock, time and strike, 8-day. C.1880.
clock is as-found with original finish, a bit dirty. The original painted dial has areas of loss and 2 poor repairs. Hands and fancy pendulum are original. Note the movement has been secured with machine screws through the case back; this could be easily changed.
Sold: $109 | Date: November 6, 2009 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Clock Co., “Athens”, 8-day time/strike mantel clock. Circa 1880
walnut case in as found condition in an original finish. Original painted dial is very clean for its age with some minor wear to the numbers. Hands and pendulum are original. Movement is signed. Height 17.25 inches
Sold: $173 | Date: November 6, 2009 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts