About the Seth Thomas “Empire No. 32” Clock
Introducing the Seth Thomas “Empire No. 32,” a captivating crystal regulator clock produced around the turn of the 20th century. This model, renowned for its intricate design and exceptional craftsmanship, showcases a striking combination of materials including brass, cast bronze, and porcelain.
The Empire No. 32 is distinguished by its unique features such as crystal columns on each end and a figural top depicting an Amish lady or a barbedienne finish on the bronze statue body. The clock boasts an 8-day, time and strike spring-driven movement, and its dial, signed Seth Thomas, features a polychrome wreath decoration.
The condition of these clocks varies slightly, with some exhibiting minor wear to their gilding or lacquer finish. However, the porcelain dials are typically in excellent condition, as are the original hands and hardware. The beveled glass panels, while not always perfect, are generally of good quality.
The Seth Thomas “Empire No. 32” is one of the more desirable models from this esteemed clockmaker, offering a blend of elegance, history, and artistry that continues to captivate collectors today.
Auction Records and Price History
The following 6 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Seth Thomas “Empire No. 32” model clock. Prices vary based on condition, originality, and current market demand. Search for more records on AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com.
C.1900, Seth Thomas, “Empire No. 32” , crystal regulator
in overall very good original condition. The only small shortcoming is one cracked glass tube on the faux mercury pendulum. Otherwise the clock appears to have received excellent care, and with good porcelain dial signed Seth Thomas plus fancy polychrome wreath decoration. Original hands and hardware intact and beveled glass is good; movement sound. This is one of the more desirable Seth Thomas models. W14.5″, Height 20 inches $1200-1600
Sold: $1,375 | Date: 11/1/2000 | Source: R.O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn., “Empire No. 32”, crystal regulator with 8 day, time and strike spring driven movement
Gold plated case has lost most of it’s gilding with a little remaining on the cast feet. Scattered loss of the finish on the face of the statue. Barbedienne finish on the bronze statue body looks to be in good condition. Original porcelain dial is perfect and original hands. The right side beveled glass panel is damaged. The other three panels are fine.
Sold: $400 | Date: April 29, 2017 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1905, Seth Thomas EMPIRE No. 32, fancy crystal regulator, with cut glass columns on each end and surmounted by a cast likeness of an Amish lady.
Condition: the feet are all good, now repainted gold, the top bust retains original finish, worn to metal on high spots of lace head cover. Porcelain dial is xlnt and original 2-vial pendulum retains its original gilding and the glass tubes are good. All the heavy beveled glass panels are perfect. Ht. 19.5″
Sold: $700 | Date: April, 2008 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas “Empire No. 32” Crystal Regulator
Clock: marked Seth Thomas floral painted porcelain dial; time and strike; has key and pendulum; winds, strikes and runs; metal case with crystal columns; leafy feet; lady head figural top; movement marked S.T. U.S.A. 5. 19 3/4″ x 14 1/2″ x 6 1/2″
Sold: $1,300 | Date: October 1, 2011 | Source: Tom Harris Auctions
Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn., “Empire No. 32”, 8 day, time and strike, spring brass movement crystal regulator mantel clock.
Brass and cast bronze figure and base has some wear to the gilding on the base and wear to the lacquer finish on the parts of the case. Original porcelain dial is perfect and three of the beveled glass panels are fine. The right panel has a chip on the upper corner. Original hands and pendulum.
Sold: $325 | Date: October 21, 2017 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn., “Empire No. 32”, 8 days, time and strike, spring driven brass movement crystal regulator, c1909.
One of the more unusual and expensive Crystal Regulators made by Seth Thomas. This has had restoration to its finish. The colorful porcelain dial is in excellent condition with one very minor chip at the top of the dial. The hands are original and the movement is signed. The cut glass columns are in excellent condition. Ht 20″.
Sold: $400 | Date: October 25, 2015 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts