About the Seth Thomas “Octagon Top E” Clock
Title: Seth Thomas “Octagon Top E” Clock Model: A Collector’s Delight
The Seth Thomas “Octagon Top E” clock is a captivating mantel clock that graced homes during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, typically produced between 1876 and 1930. This clock stands out as one of the most sought-after pieces in antique clock collecting due to its distinctive design, exceptional craftsmanship, and historical significance.
The Octagon Top E features an octagonal case crafted primarily from walnut or mahogany, showcasing a rich, dark finish that adds to its timeless elegance. The design is characterized by intricate inlays, including a fluted column at each corner and a decorative pediment that houses the pendulum. The dial is often finished with Roman numerals, a silvered chapter ring, and a brass bezel adorned with an ornate finial.
What makes the Octagon Top E clock collectible goes beyond its aesthetic appeal. This model was produced during a period of significant innovation at Seth Thomas, with many improvements made to the movement design for increased accuracy and reliability. Notable features include a precision verge-and-foliot escapement, a 14-day duration timepiece, and an hour strike mechanism.
Collectors appreciate the Octagon Top E not only for its historical value but also for the exceptional craftsmanship that sets it apart from other mantel clocks of the era. The combination of fine materials, intricate design, and reliable functionality makes this model a treasured addition to any antique clock collection.
Auction Records and Price History
The following 5 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Seth Thomas “Octagon Top E” model clock. Prices vary based on condition, originality, and current market demand. Search for more records on AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com.
C.1880, Seth Thomas Clock Co., “Octagon Top E”, 30-hour walnut cottage timepiece, with alarm.
Condition: Refinished walnut veneered case in nice clean condition. Original dial blank that was originally painted now has a paper dial Minute hand is original. Hour hand has been repaired is a little too large. Gilded door molding now gold painted. Height 15 inches [38.1 cm]
Sold: $100 | Date: 4/22/2007 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1880, Seth Thomas Clock Co., “Octagon Top E”, 30-hour time/alarm mahogany cottage timepiece.
Condition: Refinished case is clean, except its edges are a bit rounded from excess sanding, and to disguise some loss on the front of the base molding. Original dial blank has been repainted with some minor loss at one of the mounting screws. Hands are original. Gilded molding on the door now gold painted. Label protected under plastic. Height 9 inches [22.86 cm]
Sold: $130 | Date: 4/22/2007 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1870, Seth Thomas Clock Co., “Octagon Top E”, 30-hour time/alarm cottage timepiece.
Condition: Rosewood veneered case is in pretty good condition with an original finish and with a small repair on the back edge of each side of the base and on the front left corner. Mirror is original. Original dial has been repainted. Minute hand is a replacement, while the hour is correct. Refer to Tran Duy Ly’s book titled Seth Thomas Clocks and Watches, 3rd edition, volume 1, pages 213-23, for full discourse on ST cottage models. Height 9.25 inches
Sold: $150 | Date: May 6th, 2006 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1870, Seth Thomas Clock Co., “Octagon Top E”, 30-hour time/alarm cottage timepiece.
Condition: Rosewood veneered case in very nice condition with an original finish Mirror is original. Original dial has been repainted. Hands are not original. Refer to Tran Duy Ly’s book titled Seth Thomas Clocks and Watches, 3red edition, volume 1, pag. Height 9.25 inches
Sold: $175 | Date: May 6th, 2006 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1880, Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn., “Octagon top “E”, 30-hour time/alarm cottage timepiece.
Condition: Refinished rosewood veneered case in very nice clean condition. There is evidence to suggest that this movement and dial are not original to this case as the movement has been shifted up a little and the mounting blocks for the dial have extra holes. The dial has been repainted and is most likely original to the movement. The catalog normally shows this case style with a “D” type movement. The label is missing. Hands are original, but the minute hand has been repaired. Ht 9.25″ [23.4 cm]
Sold: $90 | Date: October, 22 2006 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts