About the Seth Thomas “King Bee” Clock
Title: The Seth Thomas “King Bee” Clock Model: A Collector’s Guide
The Seth Thomas “King Bee” clock, produced between 1897 and 1915, is a renowned mantel clock model that continues to captivate antique clock collectors worldwide. This striking timepiece stands out due to its unique combination of elegance and novelty design, making it an essential addition to any collection.
Characterized by a distinctive cast zinc case, the King Bee’s design is inspired by the ornate architecture of the Victorian era. The clock features intricate details such as floral motifs, scrollwork, and elaborate filigree patterns around the dial and base. A prominent beehive-shaped pendulum bob adds to its novelty appeal, earning it the nickname “King Bee.”
What sets the King Bee apart as a collectible is not just its eye-catching design but also its exceptional craftsmanship and historical significance. The clock’s movement, which utilizes a high-quality Seth Thomas 18-size time-and-strike mechanism, ensures reliable operation for many years. Furthermore, the King Bee represents a transitional period in American clockmaking when companies like Seth Thomas were refining their craft to cater to the growing interest in decorative arts during the late 19th century.
Notable features of the King Bee include its large brass-faced dial with Roman numerals and a subsidiary seconds dial, as well as the fine-quality glass globe covering the pendulum bob. Additionally, the clock’s case is adorned with a variety of gilding options, including gold, silver, and yellow or green patinas, adding to its visual appeal.
In summary, the Seth Thomas “King Bee” clock model offers antique clock collectors an
Auction Records and Price History
The following 3 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Seth Thomas “King Bee” model clock. Prices vary based on condition, originality, and current market demand. Search for more records on AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com.
Seth Thomas hanging clock, “King Bee”, ca 1905.
Made by Seth Thomas for the L. B. Price Co., Kansas City, Mo. per the label on the back. 30 inch oak case has been refinished. 90 % or more, of label intact, factory manufactures date stamped on the back. Movement checked, clean and oiled, and running. 8 day, half hour cathedral gong strike, alarms on a bell. There is a level on the base, brass ornaments on top. New paper dial. These clocks are not uncommon, and identical cases have been seen with the name, “King Jewett”, made for L. B. Price.
Sold: $500 | Date: 1/1/2003 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks
C.1905, Seth Thomas Clock Co., “King Bee” 8-day time/strike/alarm Oak hanging gingerbread clock, in excellent restored condition.
This is an extra nice model with decorative metal ornaments; the case has been refinished to a golden color. This clock does not appear in the Seth Thomas clock catalog, however, there is a wonderful label on the back that notes that this model was made ‘expressly’ for the L. B. Price Co. of Kansas City, Mo. The tablet is original along with the pendulum. Although the dial has some stains from the stripper, this is still a very attractive clock. Height.293/4″
Sold: $775 | Date: April, 2002 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Clock Co., KING BEE, oak cased hanging gingerbread clock, time, strike and alarm, 8-day. Manufactured by Seth Thomas for the L. B. Price Co of Kansas City. C.1912.
the stripped oak case is in clean condition. Dial paper appears to have been re-newed. Hands, pendulum tablet, Diana bust and hardware are original. Brass cover for the bubble level is missing. Extra nice label on case back. Height 29.5 inches
Sold: $265 | Date: November 6, 2009 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts