About the Seth Thomas “College Series, New York” Clock
Title: Seth Thomas “College Series, New York” Clock Model: A Collector’s Guide
The Seth Thomas “College Series, New York” clock is a noteworthy mantel clock that graced households during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This model, produced between approximately 1875 and 1930, showcases the company’s dedication to craftsmanship and innovation in American clockmaking.
The typical case materials for the “College Series” are brass, mahogany, walnut, or rosewood, with intricate carvings adorning the base and hood. The design features an open-face dial with Roman numerals, a finely crafted pendulum, and a weight-driven mechanism. The clock’s height varies depending on the case material, ranging from approximately 42 to 50 inches (106.7 cm to 127 cm).
The “College Series” is highly collectible due to its exceptional quality, historical significance, and aesthetic appeal. As one of Seth Thomas’ most iconic designs, it exemplifies the company’s commitment to producing reliable and beautiful timepieces. Notable features include the finely detailed carvings, the open-face dial with Roman numerals, and the choice of premium hardwoods for the case.
These clocks are not only valuable additions to a collection but also serve as a testament to the rich history of American clockmaking. The “College Series” is a must-have for any serious antique clock collector seeking to own a piece of horological history.
Auction Records and Price History
The following 2 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Seth Thomas “College Series, New York” model clock. Prices vary based on condition, originality, and current market demand. Search for more records on AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com.

Seth Thomas Thomaston, Conn “COLLEGE NEW YORK” from the Seth Thomas College Series 8 day, half hour strike and alarm spring driven mvt in old oak case with gilt pan 6″ dial, c1900
nicely patinated old refinish, the original dial is in good conditon with no losses and only minor discoloration and strong signature, the label giving directions on case back is fully intact and easy to read and the label inside the case is 80%+ intact and legible, the gilt transfer of the glass is in excellent condition with almost no loss, cast Seth Thomas pendulum bob with lion’s head motif. Ht 23 1/2″
Sold: $104 | Date: 5/15/2010 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts

Seth Thomas “New York”, ca 1897, one of their College Series, others being, Yale, Harvard, Cornell, Cambridge, and Oxford.
This is a nice set to collect if you want to impress folks about your knowledge of Ivy League schools. According to the catalogs all six were made of old oak, 23 inches high, were 8 day, half hour strike on a Cathedral bell, and had six inch dials. Now that we have established how they were all made, this one is not oak but walnut. It is time, strike, and alarm, and has two labels, both about 75% intact. Clock is running, all original finish and wood parts. The factory stamp on the back indicates it was made Sept. 1897. Ly-Seth Thomas #1103.
Sold: $315 | Date: June, 2004 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks