About the Seth Thomas “Balltop” Clock
Title: Seth Thomas “Balltop” Clock Model: A Collector’s Guide
The Seth Thomas “Balltop” clock, introduced between the late 19th and early 20th centuries, is a captivating mantel clock that graces any antique collection with its unique charm. This model is not categorized as a regulator, wall, or novelty clock but rather falls under the mantel clock category due to its compact size designed for tabletop placement.
The “Balltop” clock’s case is primarily crafted from mahogany or walnut, with intricate wood carvings adorning the base and hood. The most distinctive feature of this model is its rounded top with a finial shaped like a ball-and-spike design, giving it the name “Balltop.” The hood typically features a glass window covering the dial, while the base showcases a brass-trimmed bottom with a swing-out door for winding and setting.
What makes the Seth Thomas “Balltop” clock collectible lies in its combination of aesthetics, craftsmanship, and historical significance. Its timeless design and high-quality materials have ensured that these clocks remain durable and functional even today. The presence of the original Seth Thomas movement and dial adds to their value for collectors. Notable features include a weight-driven time-only mechanism and an ornate pendulum bob, further enhancing its appeal.
Collectors may find variations in the “Balltop” clock design over time; however, all versions share the distinctive balltop finial, making them instantly recognizable within any antique collection. The Seth Thomas “Balltop” clock’s collectibility stems from its captivating appearance, robust construction, and rich history, making it a coveted addition for enthusiasts of American horology.
Auction Records and Price History
The following 2 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Seth Thomas “Balltop” model clock. Prices vary based on condition, originality, and current market demand. Search for more records on AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com.
Seth Thomas hanging “Balltop” or “Eclipse” kitchen clock. This is one of the nicest I have had with a couple of exceptions.
It is a clean walnut case, 27 inches high, with the original glass, Eclipse pendulum, and full label on the backboard. There is another label on the door that says, “No.P.3351”. Lyre movement is 8 day, brass , Geneva stops, striking the hours on a wire gong and alarms on a brass bell, and is running. This clock came to us without the alarm mechanism. They can be purchased from Timesavers for $11. Now has a paper dial on the old zinc pan. This would surely be a keeper if you would install an alarm and have the dial painted.
Sold: $615 | Date: January, 2002 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks
Seth Thomas mantle clock, unnamed in the catalogs, but given the names, “Balltop”, and “Eclipse”, by the collectors.
Both names are obvious. It could well have been another of the “Giant” series as it is 24.5″ high. This case is walnut, very, very dark with an accumulation of 100 years of smoke and other pollutants. If you like original, this is the one. The dial, pendulum, glass, label, gong and bell, all original. Like so many of the balltops I have had this one also has a small label on the door, “No. S, 3621”, which I will speculate means it was made either in 1912 or 1921, as S is the 19th letter of the alphabet and Seth liked to do their dates of manufacture, backwards. The movement is 8 day, striking a coil gong, and alarming on a brass bell. Although dirty looking, it runs fine. No official mention in Seth Thomas catalogs, but Tran Duy Ly pictured it on page 479 of his last Seth Thomas book.
Sold: $284 | Date: July, 2004 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks