About the Seth Thomas “Kent” Clock
The Seth Thomas “Kent” clock, a notable piece from the City Series line, was produced around 1904 and is distinguished by its 14.5-inch height in dark old oak with a unique glossy finish over an alligatored one. This antique American clock, often compared to English bracket clocks due to its design, features a signed paper dial that has yellowed over time, while the center disk and bezel remain ornately cast and bright. The glass is flat and beveled, and the clock houses a signed, 8-day, time-and-strike movement that counts hours on a cathedral gong and marks half-hours on a nickel cup bell.
The Kent clock, while not extremely common, is considered relatively rare among Seth Thomas’ City Series clocks. Its originality is evident in its finish and features, with each run potentially displaying slight variations due to the materials available during production. The clock’s movement runs strongly, and it strikes a standing gong, identified by its Ly-Seth Thomas number 197. Despite its rarity, not many Kent clocks have been observed in recent sales, making it an intriguing addition to any antique American clocks collection. Engage with fellow enthusiasts and share your thoughts on this unique piece by posting comments and questions on the Antique American Clocks Facebook page.
Auction Records and Price History
The following 2 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Seth Thomas “Kent” model clock. Prices vary based on condition, originality, and current market demand. Search for more records on AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com.
Antique Seth Thomas Kent Clock
Jul 2021 – #152 Antique American Clocks Seth Thomas “Kent”, ca. 1904. The Kent is a “City Series” clock, a line of clocks that was very popular with the former owner of this auction. He would often tell me that he had all but one or two very rare ones (e.g., the Louisville, which he says he named), and after he started selling off his collection he then came into possession of the rare The Kent is 14.5 inches tall in “dark old oak” with a glossy finish over the older, slightly alligatored finish. The signed paper dial is quite yellowed, but the center disk and bezel are ornately cast and bright; the glass is flat and beveled. The signed, 8-day, time-and-strike movement is bright and shiny, running strongly, and counting the hours on a cathedral gong and marking the half-hours on a nickel cup bell. I believe the Kent was made to resemble an English bracket clock and named accordingly. No recent sales of this relatively rare clock. Post comments and questions on the AAC facebook page!
Retail: $125 | Date: 07/01/2021 | Source: AntiqueAmericanClocks.com
Seth Thomas City Series mantle clock, “Kent”, C. 1909.
The clock was only made in dark oak, stands 14.25″ high. As happened so many times with this type clock they didn’t make them exactly alike. Each run may be different depending on materials available. This clock is original but has some features, particularly the applied pieces that are different from catalog pictures. There are not many of the Kent’s around. We haven’t seen many and for sure not enough for each collector of City Series clocks to have one. The finish and everything else about the clock is original. It has not been messed with. The paper dial, brass inner dial, brass sash, all very good. Very clean and bright, signed 8 day movement. Runs nice and strikes a standing gong. Ly-Seth Thomas #197.
Sold: $418 | Date: July, 2004 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks