About the Seth Thomas “Engine Lever” Clock
Title: Seth Thomas “Engine Lever” Clock Model: A Collector’s Guide
The Seth Thomas “Engine Lever” clock, introduced in the late 19th century, is a unique and captivating mantel clock that has become a coveted piece among antique clock collectors. This model represents an innovative fusion of industrial aesthetics with clockmaking artistry, making it stand out from other Seth Thomas productions.
Typical case materials for the Engine Lever clock include brass and cast iron, which not only contribute to its robust construction but also impart a distinctive patina over time, enhancing its vintage appeal. The design is characterized by an intricate engine-like structure, with exposed gears, levers, and a large pendulum bob suspended from the top of the case. This novelty aspect sets it apart from more traditional mantel clocks.
Produced primarily between 1890 and 1915, the Engine Lever clock is considered one of Seth Thomas’s most collectible models due to its rarity, intricate mechanical design, and strong industrial aesthetic. Notable features include a time-only function, a Westminster chime on the hour, and a pendulum swing that simulates the motion of an engine piston.
In addition to its industrial charm, the Engine Lever clock is also appreciated for its technical complexity and the craftsmanship required to produce such a detailed mechanical timepiece. For antique clock collectors seeking a unique piece that showcases American ingenuity during the Industrial Revolution, the Seth Thomas “Engine Lever” clock is an excellent addition to any collection.
Auction Records and Price History
The following 12 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Seth Thomas “Engine Lever” model clock. Prices vary based on condition, originality, and current market demand. Search for more records on AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com.
Antique Seth Thomas engine lever Clock
Jan 2021 – 224 Antique American Clocks Seth Thomas “Engine Lever”, ca. 1935. I can’t find an exact match in Ly’s book on Seth Thomas Clocks, but this most closely approximates the Engine Lever shown for 1935. The nickel-plated case is 8 inches in diameter with a 6-inch silver-plated dial; the bezel is hinged with a push-button to open. It has a signed Seth Thomas No. 10 double-wind, time-only lever movement that includes a seconds bit. The dial is signed “Geo. J. Adams”, likely a retailer who ordered the clocks. The nickel case needs polishing and the silvered dial as well. It is running.
Retail: $125 | Date: 01/01/2021 | Source: AntiqueAmericanClocks.com
Antique Seth Thomas engine lever Clock
Jul 2020 – 221 Antique American Clocks Seth Thomas “Engine Lever” ca. 1910. I believe this is an early (WWI) vintage ship’s clock, only 4.75 inches in diameter with a 3-inch silvered dial in a brass case with a screw bezel and a seconds bit. It is smaller than any ship’s clock shown in Ly’s books on Seth Thomas clocks. Engine lever means time only, screw bezel indicates waterproof. The dial shows scratching and oxidation and is labeled “U.S. Navy Boat Clock”. I did not inspect the movement, but it is running.
Retail: $220 | Date: 07/01/2020 | Source: AntiqueAmericanClocks.com
Seth Thomas Clock Co. “Engine Lever”, ca 1936.
8 day, time only, double wind movement No.10. Polished brass base is 7 inches, silver dial is 5 1/4 inches. Hinged front bezel. Clock is clean and running. Ly-Seth Thomas No.1441.
Sold: $155 | Date: 1/1/2003 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks
C.1910, Seth Thomas, Engine Lever, in smooth brass case with wooden backboard and most of the original label.
With No. 10, double spring 8-day movement with seconds bit at 12. Original dial is in good condition and case has never been abused; overall very good; diameter 6.25′
Sold: $150 | Date: 11/1/1999 | Source: R.O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1909, Seth Thomas ENGINE LEVER ship’s wall clock
, time only brass cased wall clock with twist bezel. This clock comes to us from storage. It is running OK. The bezel had been bent and has been straightened; shows from the side, but looks OK from the front. Original dial with some corrosion and minor touch up. Height 6 ” $90-120
Sold: $75 | Date: 11/1/2000 | Source: R.O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Clock Co., c.1920, ENGINE LEVER, double spring, time only marine clock in a nickeled brass case, 8-day.
there are two tiny holes in the dial where a name plaque had been removed, otherwise the clock is excellent and original, with a super full label on the rear. Ht 6.2″
Sold: $184 | Date: 5/15/2010 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Clock Co., ENGINE LEVER, c.1935, rolled brass tub and hinged bezel, with duplex spring lever timepiece movement No. 10.
the case has some tarnish, the dial has a spot of tarnish toward 4, and general light spotting. Seems to run OK. Ht 7″
Sold: $138 | Date: 5/15/2010 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1936, Seth Thomas Clock Co., “Engine Lever” 8-day Ship’s timepiece.
This clock has had a hard life. The dial is in need of restoration with tarnish and numbers loss. The bezel glass is missing. The case has some minor dings and dents. Both springs are intact; movement ticks and stops. Height 7″
Sold: $130 | Date: April, 2002 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1920, Seth Thomas Clock Co., “Engine Lever”, 8-day engine room or ward room timepiece.
Condition: Nickel-plated case in excellent condition with just a couple of minor dings. Original silvered dial is very clean with just a couple of small blemishes. Hands are original. Xlnt example of this model. Ht. 7″
Sold: $90 | Date: April, 2008 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn., nickel plated “Engine Lever” 8 day time only marine wall clock, mounted on newer mahogany backboard, hinged bezel.
the surface shows minor wear and tarnish; the bezel has minor edge dents, the dial has brass faintly showing through the silvering, and some deeper wear around the edges. The twin-spring movement ticks but was not tested long term. Overall diameter of wood backboard 8.75 in
Sold: $120 | Date: May 15, 2016 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1936 Seth Thomas Clock Co., ÒEngine LeverÓ, 8-day engine room timepiece.
Condition: Brass case in nice condition with a little rippling in one spot on the inner edge of the front bezel and the back mounting flange is bent in a little in one spot. The silvered dial is tarnished a little and has some minor scratches, but is in remarkably good shape for its age. The hands are original. This clock has been professionally cleaned and is running. Height 7 inches
Sold: $175 | Date: October 31, 2004 | Source: R.O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1935 Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn., “Engine Lever” , 8-day engine room lever movement timepiece, double wind movement.
Condition: Nickel plated brass case in good condition with wear and tarnish to the finish. Original silvered dial is quite nice with most of the tarnish confined to the outer edge. Hands are original. Overall very good original condition. Ht 7″ [17.7 cm]
Sold: $100 | Date: October, 22 2006 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts