About the Seth Thomas “Chatham” Clock
The Seth Thomas “Chatham” clock, manufactured by the Seth Thomas Clock Company in Thomaston, Connecticut around 1909 and 1924, is a notable gallery timepiece that showcases the company’s craftsmanship during this era.
The mahogany and golden oak versions of this clock feature round wood cases with diameters ranging from 16 to 16.5 inches. The original finish remains on these cases, although some may exhibit signs of wear or damage such as dings or flaking paint. The clocks are equipped with an 8-day spring brass movement and a painted dial, which may display minor imperfections like mismatched paint repairs or brown circular lines from setting the hands.
The “Chatham” clock’s design is characterized by its clean and original appearance, as well as its trap door base in some cases. Notably, the glass has been recently soldered in place on certain models, making it heavy and requiring careful handling when opening the bezel. The clocks come with original hands and a new paper dial in some instances.
For collectors interested in learning more about this model, Tran Ly’s book on Seth Thomas, 3rd Edition, provides additional information, including details on the “Chatham” clock on page 352, figure 1141. These clocks are often found in excellent original condition and may be identified by a SUPER label on the rear of the case.
Auction Records and Price History
The following 5 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Seth Thomas “Chatham” 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., “Chatham” mahogany 8 day gallery time piece, c1924
The original dark finish remains on this round wood case, and the painted metal dial has some flaking especially near the signature. The glass has been recently soldered in place, and is too thick and heavy, so use care when opening the bezel. The pendulum movement ticks. 16″ overall diameter
Sold: $80 | Date: April 22, 2012 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas hanging gallery clock, “Chatham”, ca 1909.
Golden oak case is 16 inches, clean and original with trap door in the base. Clean brass bezel, glass is tight which is a good sign. New 12 inches paper dial, correct hands and pendulum. 8 day, time only movement is running. Ly-Seth Thomas No. 581.
Sold: $200 | Date: January, 2005 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks
C.1905, Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, CHATHAM, 8-day round oak timepiece with 12 inch painted dial.
Condition: Excellent original condition throughout, recently cleaned and running well. For additional information on this clock, see Tran Ly’s book on Seth Thomas, 3rd Edition, page 352, figure 1141. Ly 2004 price guide $350. This clock with SUPER label on rear. From a home in E. Brookfield. Height 16 inches
Sold: $350 | Date: May 6th, 2006 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn., “Chatham”, 8 day, spring brass movement gallery clock or timepiece, c1917
Mahogany case with remains of an original finish has a ding on the bottom edge. Original painted dial with some mismatched paint repairs in the center area. Hands are original. Rear of case stenciled with 1917 [read backwards] production date. Ht 16″
Sold: $150 | Date: October 26, 2013 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1924, Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn., “Chatham” , 8-day round gallery timepiece.
Condition: Quarter sawn oak case is nice condition with an alligatored original finish. Original painted dial has some very minor flaking and a brown circular line probably from a setting the hands. Hands are original. Overall very good original condition. Ht 16.5″ [41.9 cm]
Sold: $275 | Date: October, 22 2006 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts