About the Seth Thomas “Atlas” Clock
Title: Seth Thomas “Atlas” Clock Model: A Collector’s Guide
The Seth Thomas “Atlas” clock model, introduced in the late 19th century during the Victorian era, is a quintessential mantel clock that continues to captivate antique collectors today. This timepiece is characterized by its impressive size and intricate design, making it a standout addition to any collection.
The “Atlas” clock features a sturdy cast-iron case in the form of the titan Atlas, holding up the world on his shoulders. The base of the clock is adorned with an elaborate scrollwork design, enhancing its aesthetic appeal. The dial, framed by intricate brass bezel work, showcases Roman numerals and a seconds hand, adding to its classic charm.
What sets the Seth Thomas “Atlas” clock apart is not just its impressive design but also its robust construction and mechanical precision. With an 8-day movement, this clock ensures accurate timekeeping for an extended period before requiring winding. The use of high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship during its production era further adds to its collectible value.
Notable features of the “Atlas” clock include a hooded pendulum visible through a glass window, adding a touch of scientific intrigue to the overall design. Additionally, some versions feature a bronze or gilt finish, further enhancing their collectibility and visual appeal. For antique clock enthusiasts, the Seth Thomas “Atlas” clock offers a unique blend of historical significance, aesthetic beauty, and mechanical precision, making it an exciting addition to any collection.
Auction Records and Price History
The following 6 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Seth Thomas “Atlas” 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., “Atlas”, 8 days, quarter striking walnut mantel clock, c1886
Walnut and walnut veneered case with remains of an original finish. The veneer on the base and the right side is lifting and will need to be reglued. The left finial has some damage on the base. Original painted dial has some wear around the winding arbors and a small chip near the center. Hands, tablet and pendulum are original. Movement is signed. Fairly clean label inside the case. Ht 22.25″
Sold: $800 | Date: April 27, 2014 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1886, Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, CT. “Atlas” 8-day parlor clock with a quarter-hour gong striking movement
(this is an uncommon Seth Thomas movement, similar to that used in the Marcy). It has a fancy walnut case in fine condition with original finish. It also has an unusually good original dial with only one missing grommet. It also has great original bronze decoration glass, original nickel plated gong base and nickel plated decorated pendulum. It also has the original black label inside in the bottom of the case in good condition. The minute hand is original, but the hour hand is replaced (needs only a common spade hand to be correct). This is a fine example of this scarce quarter striking model. Height 22 1/2″
Sold: $1,600 | Date: April, 2002 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas rare quarter striking mantle clock, “Atlas”, ca 1884, as indicated by the factory manufacturing stamp on the backboard.
Made of carefully selected walnut wood, the clock is 22.5 inches high, three quarter turned columns on the front and quarter columns on the back. The columns were turned showing grooves and various thicknesses. The case is highly polished and looks like a parlor clock should. Nickel plated Seth Thomas bob, beveled and etched like only they could. Matching nickel pendulum hanger, gong base, hinges, and dial rings. Over half of the old black label remains on the base, brass beat scale, and brass strike hammers. An outstanding glass with gold design, original painted zinc dial is about as good as you could hope for in a clock this old, and particularly a Seth Thomas dial, as they always lose their paint early. Some crusty finish remains but for the most part, it has been well maintained with regular cleaning and polishing. We just do not get these quarter hour strikers (Atlas and Hecla) that are any better than this. I would think the new Ly- Seth Thomas books due out in late 1994 will value this clock upwards of $2500. Ly-Seth Thomas (1996 Book) page276.
Sold: $2375 | Date: January, 2005 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks
Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn., “Atlas” shelf clock with a spring driven time and quarter strike movement in an oak case.
The case is in excellent condition with some original finish and some later finish. The dial is a replaced paper dial. The hands are original. The 3 train movement is signed. The nickel pendulum bob is nicely damascened. The case back shows a factory date of December, 1886. The stenciled door glass is original.
Sold: $450 | Date: May 19, 2018 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn., “Atlas” mantel clock in a walnut case with three train, 8 days, spring driven movement, striking the quarter hours on 2 cup bells and hours on a cathedral bell, c1887.
The case retains its original finish. The original painted dial in good condition, but has poor repairs at 4 and 6. The hands are original and the movement is signed. The nickel pendulum bob nicely damascened. The door glass appears original. The clock is dated January 1887 (7881A) on the case back. Ht 22 1/2″.
Sold: $725 | Date: October 25, 2015 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1885, Seth Thomas, ÓATLAS, Ò quarter striking, 3-train shelf clock, ting tang on 2 bells, walnut.
Condition: This clock is in excellent original condition and sure to appeal to the serious Seth Thomas collector, perhaps even someone who served time in England. This clock was an original export to the UK, and with the name Bacon, King Street, Dover, on the dial. There is an additional label in the base identifying John Bacon as a chronometer and watch-maker and goldsmith, jeweler and optician in Dover; this label is pasted over the original Seth Thomas label. Superb original tablet and damascene pendulum. Original finish is nicely waxed. An especially nice example. This is the same movement as used in the Marcy and Hecla models. These bells have extra nice tone. See also lot 326. Height 22.5 inches
Sold: $2,200 | Date: October 31, 2004 | Source: R.O. Schmitt Fine Arts