About the Seth Thomas “Chime Clock No. 57” Clock
Title: Seth Thomas Chime Clock No. 57: A Collector’s Delight
The Seth Thomas “Chime Clock No. 57” is a coveted mantel clock model that has graced numerous antique collections worldwide. This masterpiece, produced primarily during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, falls under the mantel clock category due to its compact size designed for placement on a shelf or mantelpiece.
The Chime Clock No. 57 is renowned for its exquisite case materials and designs. The majority of these clocks feature mahogany cases with intricate carvings, gilt-bronze accents, and glass doors to reveal the beautifully crafted movement within. Some models also incorporate marquetry, further elevating their artistic value.
What sets the Seth Thomas Chime Clock No. 57 apart as a collectible piece is its remarkable combination of aesthetics and functionality. This clock boasts an eight-day time-and-strike movement, offering both hourly chimes and a silent mode for those seeking quieter operation. Its distinctive Westminster or Whittington chime options add a melodious touch to any room.
Notable features of the Chime Clock No. 57 include its finely tuned brass pendulum bob swinging within a clear glass dome, along with a striking train wheel visible through an open back door on some models. Furthermore, the clock’s dial often displays Roman numerals against a rich, ivory background, enhancing its timeless appeal.
In summary, the Seth Thomas Chime Clock No. 57 is a must-have for any serious antique clock collector. Its mantel size, luxurious materials, distinctive chime options, and intricate design elements make it an enduring
Auction Records and Price History
The following 11 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Seth Thomas “Chime Clock No. 57” 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. 57 Clock
Jan 2020 – 326 Antique American Clocks Seth Thomas “Chime Clock No. 57”, ca. 1914. A 12-inch tall mahogany cabinet that has a severely crinkled varnish finish in need of restoration. It is 17.25 inches wide and 6.75 inches deep. The 6-inch convex silvered matte dial shows some wear and sits behind a beveled, convex glass. The clock is running and loves to chime on the four bells, so much that it will not stop chiming. If you are willing to pull the chime movement it is probably a simple fix. refinish the case while you are at it, and you will have a clock worth twice what you pay for it. Of course the Westminster chime on bells sounds great. These typically sell for about $250. Found a broken or misdirected link? Let us know! AnAmClocks@gmail.com
Retail: $186 | Date: 01/01/2020 | Source: AntiqueAmericanClocks.com
C.1922, Seth Thomas, “Chime Clock No. 57” chiming Westminster quarters on 4 steel RODS, and in very good to excellent original condition.
This model came out in the 1920’s as a cheaper alternative to the Sonora units. It still has a very melodious sound and the original rods are intact. Very minor nicks to case; b’oth movements have been professionally cleaned and this clock is ready to enjoy. Width 17.5Ó, Height 11Ó $250-$350
Sold: $250 | Date: 11/3/2002 | Source: R.O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn., “Chime Clock No. 57”, 4 bell Sonora chime, playing Westminster tune on quarter hours on 4 cupped iron bells over echo chamber, c1920
the mahogany veneer case has been stripped and never properly finished. Movements are intact, ticks, strikes and chimes. A oxidation spot on silvered dial. Ht 11″
Sold: $250 | Date: April 27, 2014 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn., “Chime Clock No. 57” mahogany 8 days, 5 bell Westminster chime mantel clock, dated 1916
this clock has been fully restored with a new simulated porcelain dial overlay, and a few scratches and losses on the wood case. Both movements are correct, and we heard ticking and chiming on the “resonated” bells. Ht 12″
Sold: $300 | Date: April 27, 2014 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1910, Seth Thomas, Chime Clock No. 57, 5-bell Sonora with restorations.
The mahogany case has been refinished and there are a couple of runs in the finish. Biggest problem with this clock is it is a 5 bell case and bell set up that got separated from its original 5-bell movement, and a 4-bell movement is now in place. There are several extra holes inside the case to indicate that both movements have been changed. As these were factory produced clocks, the dimensions are basically the same, the mounting slightly different. This situation aside, the clock has a great dial and wonderful sound, chiming Westminster on the quarters. Best thing to do is enjoy this clock as is. Height 12″
Sold: $350 | Date: April, 2002 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1914, Seth Thomas Clock Co., “Chime Clock No. 57”, Sonora chime on 4 bells mantel clock, Westminster tune, 8-day.
Condition: Refinished mahogany case in generally good condition with a couple of dings and piece of veneer missing on the narrow flat edge just above the base. Original silvered dial is very clean for its age with only minor discoloration around the winding holes. Movements have not been serviced in a while, but are still ticking and chiming (nice tone). Hands are original. Ht. 11.5″
Sold: $550 | Date: April, 2008 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1915 Seth Thomas Clock Co., “Chime Clock No. 57”, 8-day time/strike 5-bell Sonora chime mantel clock.
Condition: Mahogany case has some minor dings and scratches, but is in otherwise very good condition with original finish. The silvered dial is a little tarnished and has a couple of scratches, but is still very good as well. Hands are original. Height 11 inches
Sold: $450 | Date: May 7, 2005 | Source: R.O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1921, Seth Thomas Clock Co., “Chime Clock No. 57”, 8-day, 5-bell Sonora chime mantel clock, playing Westminster melody on quarter hours.
Condition: Mahogany and mahogany veneered case in as found condition in original finish, some dirt on base. The leading edge of the rear door became detached and was glued on. Original silvered dial has tarnish. Hands are original. Both movements are intact. Overall a very good chiming tambour clock. Ht. 11.5″
Sold: $300 | Date: May 8, 2009 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1915, Seth Thomas Clock Co., “Chime Clock No. 57”, 8-day 4-bell Sonora chime time/strike chime clock.
The case is in unrestored condition; was varnished over lightly some time ago, and there is some orange peel to the finish. The silvered dial is tarnished in places and there are scratches around the winding arbors. The movement, hands, bells, and all case hardware are original and sound; clock has been in storage for some time and movements need service Height 12 inches
Sold: $400 | Date: May 8th, 2004 | Source: R.O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1915, Seth Thomas, “Chime Clock No. 57”, 5-Bell Sonora chime clock in good original condition.
This clock is a one family item, consigned from a cottage in Maine where it has sat for some time. The finish has alligatored, but looks Ok to me, better than a refinish. The movements are both dirty and dry, it will eek out the Westminster tune, strike and tick, but sure wants a cleaning. Retains original dial, hands, pendulum, key and hardware. For reference to this model, see Ly’s book on Seth Thomas, 1996, page 218. Height 11 inches
Sold: $725 | Date: May 8th, 2004 | Source: R.O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1915, Seth Thomas, ÒChime Clock No. 57Ó, quarter chime mantel clock playing Westminster tune in 4 bells and strike the hours on a 5th deeper toned bell (5 bell Sonora).
Condition: Overall this clock is in xlnt original condition, with the movements recently cleaned and running and chiming fine. Height 12 inches
Sold: $600 | Date: October 31, 2004 | Source: R.O. Schmitt Fine Arts