About the Seth Thomas “Camden” Clock
Title: Seth Thomas “Camden” Clock Model – A Collector’s Guide
The Seth Thomas “Camden” clock model, a timeless masterpiece from the American clockmaking giant, is a mantel clock of unparalleled elegance and craftsmanship. Produced primarily between 1876 and 1900, this model embodies the peak of Victorian-era design aesthetic and technical prowess.
The Camden clock’s case is typically constructed from mahogany or walnut, with intricate carvings adorning its front, back, and sides. The dial features a finely engraved brass face, often embellished with Roman numerals, and a glass panel protecting the timepiece. Notable among the design elements is the distinctive swan-neck pediment, adding an air of sophistication to the overall look.
What sets the Seth Thomas “Camden” apart from other models is its exceptional craftsmanship, attention to detail, and the high-quality materials used in its construction. Each clock was designed to function not just as a timekeeper but also as a piece of art, making it highly collectible for antique clock enthusiasts.
The Camden model features a 30-hour, eight-day movement with a pendulum visible through the open front door. The clock strikes on a bell and is wound via a key or side-mounted rope winder. Some versions of this model also include a calendar complication, adding further complexity and value to the piece.
In addition to its historical significance and exquisite design, the Camden model’s rarity due to limited production makes it particularly sought after by collectors. As with any antique, condition, authenticity, and provenance play crucial roles in determining a clock’s value. For those fortunate enough to own or acquire a
Auction Records and Price History
The following 4 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Seth Thomas “Camden” model clock. Prices vary based on condition, originality, and current market demand. Search for more records on AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com.
C.1886, Seth Thomas Clock Co., “Camden”, 8-day time/strike/alarm City Series mantel clock.
Condition: Refinished walnut case in clean condition, except the carved top trim is new – copied from an original. Dial has been professionally repainted with crinkle finish. Hands and pendulum are original. Original tablet has loss to the gold decoration in the upper left corner. Movement is properly signed. In original condition, this would bring $450. Height 22.5 inches [57.1 cm]
Sold: $125 | Date: 4/22/2007 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Clock Co. “Camden mini-1921”, tambour clock.
Mahogany case is 9″ wide, silver dial and original hands. Beveled glass in the brass sash. Dial is signed, “Seth Thomas / 8 Day / Made In U.S.A.”. 8 day movement winds and sets on the back and it is running. Ly-Seth Thomas No. 2397.
Sold: $67 | Date: 7/31/2010 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks
Seth Thomas Clock Co., novelty tambour cased clock called “Camden”, ca 1936.
Mahogany case, 4 inches high, 9 inches long, signed porcelain dial has some slight damage at 5 oÕclock and a few faint hairlines. Beveled glass also suffered from the accident as it has a tiny flake in the beveled edge that is hard to detect. There is a Seth Thomas label on the base.Trying to run but is struggling. No doubt never cleaned and oiled. See Ly-SethThomas No. 1409.
Sold: $0 | Date: July, 2003 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks
Seth Thomas parlor clock, one of the City Series, “Camden”, C. 1887.
This one is about as good as they get, with one little exception. It is so nice you would think it had been refinished, yet you look close and the old crazing is there. It had to have resided in a house where no one smoked and they didn’t burn coal. Walnut case is 22.5″ high, no problems anywhere, full black label, factory stamp on the back -1887, perfect original glass, brass Seth Thomas pendulum that is correct for the City Series clocks. 8 day, striking hours on a Cathedral gong, and running up a storm. The exception – there is a new paper dial on the old zinc pan. What a shame. Whoever buys this nice, almost mint clock, please have the dial painted. Ly-Seth Thomas, #176.
Sold: $386 | Date: July, 2004 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks