About the Seth Thomas “Hanging Eclipse” Clock
Title: Seth Thomas Hanging Eclipse Clock Model – A Collector’s Delight
The Seth Thomas “Hanging Eclipse” clock, introduced in the late 19th century, is a captivating novelty timepiece that continues to enthrall antique clock collectors today. This unique clock model departs from the traditional mantel or wall clocks, embracing an intriguing design that resembles a miniature planetarium.
The Hanging Eclipse clock boasts a distinctive cast-iron case, often adorned with finely detailed astronomical motifs, such as planets and celestial bodies. The clock’s design is suspended from the ceiling or a wall bracket, allowing it to rotate gradually, creating an illusion of the movement of the solar system.
Produced between 1867 and 1905, this Seth Thomas masterpiece was one of the first clocks designed to incorporate the captivating phenomenon of an eclipse. The Hanging Eclipse clock’s mechanism features a small metal ball that moves across the dial during the day, symbolizing the sun, and a larger moon-shaped ball that eclipses the sun at night, representing a lunar eclipse.
The Seth Thomas Hanging Eclipse clock is highly collectible due to its rarity, unique design, historical significance, and intricate craftsmanship. Notable features include the detailed cast-iron case, the novel rotating mechanism, and the mesmerizing eclipse simulation that brings a touch of celestial wonder to any collection. Its appeal lies in both its historical value as a testament to America’s industrial prowess during the Victorian era and its artistic merit as an exceptional example of functional artistry.
Auction Records and Price History
The following 3 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Seth Thomas “Hanging Eclipse” model clock. Prices vary based on condition, originality, and current market demand. Search for more records on AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com.
C.1890, Seth Thomas, Hanging Eclipse,
walnut ball top, as-found. The lower left return is missing, and the case has been stripped and stained a bit dark. Retains original dial, pend, tablet, hands, alarm, etc. Dial mask is cracked and the screws holding it on are a bit large; dial with wear around winding holes; hour hand loose on hub. Label is there, but a bit dark. Has potential. Height 26 ” Reserve $250
Sold: $470 | Date: 5/8/2000 | Source: R.O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas, “Hanging Eclipse”, or “Balltop” clock, ca around 1900.
An untouched, as found, original model. Full label in the case, completely original, never cleaned (but should be), dial also dirty. If you want one to restore or you just like originality, this is the one, and it is running. 8 day, strike and alarm. Ly-Seth Thomas, page 479.
Sold: $627 | Date: July, 2002 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks
C.1890, Seth Thomas, “Hanging Eclipse”, as-found. The walnut case has been refinished.
The center alarm disc is absent, although the alarm movement is original and intact; the dial, Eclipse pendulum and tablet are original. The hour hand is incorrect. Otherwise a decent 8-day T/S, hanging gingerbread, ticks and strikes. Height 26.5 inches
Sold: $450 | Date: May 8th, 2004 | Source: R.O. Schmitt Fine Arts