About the Seth Thomas “Cordova” Clock
Title: Seth Thomas “Cordova” Clock Model: A Collector’s Guide
The Seth Thomas “Cordova” clock is a captivating mantel clock model that graced homes during the late 19th century, approximately between 1876 and 1900. This timepiece is renowned for its unique blend of style and precision, making it a valuable addition to any antique clock collection.
The Cordova clock is characterized by its ornate cast iron case, featuring an intricate Oriental design inspired by the Moorish influence in Spain’s Cordoba region. The case is typically adorned with detailed arabesque patterns and bold floral motifs, enhancing its visual appeal. The dial, often made of brass, showcases Roman numerals and a seconds hand, adding to the clock’s antique charm.
What sets the Seth Thomas “Cordova” clock apart is not just its aesthetic beauty but also its mechanical precision. The clock boasts a time-tested verge and foliot movement, ensuring reliable and accurate timekeeping. Notable features include the finely crafted pendulum bob, suspended from a decorative chain, and the ornately designed weight shell.
The Seth Thomas “Cordova” clock is highly collectible due to its rarity, exquisite design, and exceptional craftsmanship. Its Oriental-inspired aesthetic makes it stand out among other antique clocks, adding a touch of exotic elegance to any decor. For the discerning collector, the Cordova clock offers not only a functional timepiece but also a testament to American craftsmanship and design during the Victorian era.
Auction Records and Price History
The following 5 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Seth Thomas “Cordova” model clock. Prices vary based on condition, originality, and current market demand. Search for more records on AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com.
C.1902 (dated), Seth Thomas CORDOVA “City Series” Clock
in outstanding original condition. This clock came from a gentleman in Rockingham County, NH and was recently serviced. In all respects this clock is “like new”. Using premium round 15-day movement, and a fired porcelain dial. Mahogany case in classic Greek style with columns and capitals, is superb. Note extra case trim on this early version was later eliminated. Ready for home or office. Height 10 inches $250-350
Sold: $700 | Date: 11/1/2000 | Source: R.O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1900, Seth Thomas Clock Co., “Cordova” 8-day time and strike oak mantel clock in very good original condition.
There is some wear to the finish along the edges of the case, and some dirt on the top but overall it is in great shape with nice patina; note it may have been brushed over with some reddish shellac long ago, as it does have a mahogany look to it. The porcelain dial and beveled glass are perfect. The movement is properly signed, and was recently overhauled, and is in good running order. Note this is a skeletonized version of their round movement that we have not seen before (both front and rear plates are cut out). The hands are original. This clock is ready to take home and enjoy. Height 10.75Ó $200-$300
Sold: $460 | Date: 11/3/2002 | Source: R.O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas City Clock, “Cordova”, ca 1909.
10.75 inches high case of dark mahogany, never cleaned. Some minor wood damage, easily correctable. There are plated metal caps and bases on the half columns and 3 other applied metal pieces on the front. The movement is 8 day, half hour cathedral gong strike. Signed round movement, outside count, correct pendulum, running. 4 inches cream porcelain dial has a chip at the hand arbor, and numerous hairlines extending out from the hand arbor. Beveled glass in the beaded sash. This clock books for over $500 if in very good condition.
Sold: $212 | Date: January, 2005 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks
Seth Thomas “Cordova” mantel clock, ca 1909, one of the City Series.
Mahogany case never touched with a cleaner, old crazing still there. Metal capitals and bases on the 2 wood columns. Porcelain dial, French hands, fancy machine turned French sash, and beveled glass, is what sets this clock apart from others. Round movement No.48J, enclosed spring barrels, brass standing cathedral gong. 8 day, half hour strike. Ly-Seth Thomas No.186.
Sold: $377 | Date: July, 2002 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks
C.1900, Seth Thomas, ÒCORDOVAÓ, oak cased mentel clock, 15-day time and strike, case with plated metal caps and trim.
Condition: This is the earlier model with metal trim above the capitals and below the dial. This clock is out of a home in Sunapee, a one owner and is 100% ORIGINAL, as good as it gets-. Shows evidence of loving care and runs and strikes OK. For additional information, see 3rd ed, 2004 Ly book on Seth Thomas, page 191. Also see our Nov 2000 catalog, lot 232, which sold for 700+ dollars. This clock is as nice. Height 10.75 inches
Sold: $460 | Date: October 31, 2004 | Source: R.O. Schmitt Fine Arts