About the Seth Thomas “Chime Clock No. 51” Clock
Title: Seth Thomas Chime Clock No. 51: A Collector’s Delight
The Seth Thomas Chime Clock No. 51 is a quintessential mantel clock, designed to gracefully complement any home decor while providing precision timekeeping. This model was part of the extensive product line of the renowned Seth Thomas Clock Company, produced primarily during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Typical case materials for the Chime Clock No. 51 include mahogany, walnut, and oak, with intricate marquetry or veneer detailing on some versions. The clock’s design showcases a harmonious blend of traditional American craftsmanship and innovative engineering, making it a coveted piece for antique clock collectors.
What sets the Seth Thomas Chime Clock No. 51 apart is its unique combination of style, functionality, and history. This model features a distinctive dial design with Roman numerals and a swinging pendulum that adds an appealing touch of movement to the static mantelpiece. The clock’s most notable feature, however, is its Westminster chime mechanism, which plays the famous ‘Westminster Quarters,’ adding a melodious charm to the timekeeping experience.
Collectors appreciate this model for several reasons: its timeless design, exceptional craftsmanship, and historical significance as a product of one of America’s oldest and most respected clock manufacturers. The Seth Thomas Chime Clock No. 51 is not only a functional addition to any home but also an investment in the preservation of American horological history.
Auction Records and Price History
The following 3 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Seth Thomas “Chime Clock No. 51” model clock. Prices vary based on condition, originality, and current market demand. Search for more records on AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com.
Antique Seth Thomas Chime Clock No. 51 Clock
Jan 2021 – 232 Antique American Clocks Seth Thomas “Chime Clock No. 51”, ca. 1914. Seth Thomas made about a million models of chime clocks and this is one of the less common. It came in oak only in three finishes, this is golden oak. The case is 14 inches tall with four bells, sounding Westminster Chimes on the quarter-hours and counting the hours with a fifth hammer. The convex dial is silvered with some spotty losses, behind a convex beveled glass. It is running and chiming as you might expect on four large deep-toned Sonora bells. If you don’t like clocks that chime these Sonora chime clocks will change your mind. chimes from Seth Thomas typically sell between $250 and $400.
Retail: $275 | Date: 01/01/2021 | Source: AntiqueAmericanClocks.com
C.1913, Seth Thomas Clock Co., “Chime Clock No. 51”, 4 bell Sonora chime mantel clock,
quarter chiming Westminster tune, restored. This quarter-sawn oak case has been very nicely refinished and the bezel polished. The silvered dial has a little tarnish and some silver loss. The hands are original. There is one small piece of oak veneer missing from the top, left, that is not noticeable; (rest of case is solid oak). The movements have been cleaned and are running. Height 14″
Sold: $475 | Date: April, 2002 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1914, Seth Thomas Clock Co., Chime Clock No. 51, 4 bell Sonora chime in fumed oak veneer.
Condition: there is a big veneer chip top center that needs attention. Otherwise it is complete and sound with good movements and great sounding bells. Most of these came in mahogany or Adamantine, this is the only one we know of that came in oak. Ht 14″
Sold: $195 | Date: May 8, 2009 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts