About the Seth Thomas “Paris” Clock
Title: Seth Thomas “Paris” Clock Model: A Collector’s Guide
The Seth Thomas “Paris” clock, introduced around the late 19th century, is a quintessential example of American craftsmanship and design. This model falls under the mantel clock category, designed to stand independently on a table or mantelpiece, providing both functionality and aesthetic appeal.
The Paris clock typically features a mahogany veneer case adorned with intricate inlays and decorative elements that mimic French Baroque style. The case is often embellished with ornate carvings, brass accents, and fluted columns, contributing to its grandeur and elegance. The dial is usually of white enamel, framed by a convex glass, and accompanied by finely crafted hands.
What makes the Seth Thomas “Paris” clock collectible is its exceptional quality, rarity, and historical significance. As one of the most elaborate mantel clocks produced by Seth Thomas, it represents a high point in American clockmaking during the Victorian era. Notable features include a striking Westminster chime mechanism, a high-quality movement, and a pendulum visible through an aperture at the bottom of the case.
Collectors appreciate the Paris clock for its stunning design, excellent craftsmanship, and the narrative it tells about American industrial growth during the 19th century. Its rarity, due to limited production, further adds to its allure and desirability among antique clock enthusiasts.
Auction Records and Price History
The following 2 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Seth Thomas “Paris” model clock. Prices vary based on condition, originality, and current market demand. Search for more records on AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com.
Antique Seth Thomas Paris Clock
Jan 2020 – 65 Antique American Clocks Seth Thomas “Paris”, 1895. Good grief, I searched through over 3,000 Seth Thomas clocks on the Antique Clocks Price Guide before I found a match for this clock; one sold at Schmitt’s in 2003 for $360. It is the only sale on Antique Clocks Price Guide. You will not find this model in either of Ly’s latest volumes on Seth Thomas clocks, but Kyle Kenyon tells me it is shown in Ly’s 1996 edition. It is 15.5 inches tall in an imitation marble adamantine finish, with imprinted black scrollwork on the front. It is embellished with gilt ornaments across the top and bottom; the giltwork is remarkably well preserved, as is the adamantine; I see only one spot to the right of the dial where the adamantine has cracked. on the top finial is not quite as well preserved. The signed porcelain dial sits in a brass bezel behind a convex glass; there is a hairline and a repair near the 11. There is a signed, round movement with an external count wheel; it strikes on a cathedral It is running and striking as required, on the hours and half-hours. There is no label (there are two jeweler’s repair labels) but the bottom is stenciled with the date of manufacture, which confirmed to me that it was a Seth Thomas clock. Hence, the hunt through Antique Clocks Price Guide to find a name. Based on the sale in 2003 I would expect this to sell for between $150 and $250.
Retail: $175 | Date: 01/01/2020 | Source: AntiqueAmericanClocks.com
C.1894, Seth Thomas Clock Co., “Paris”, 8-day time/strike mantel clock.
This French style clock with adamantine veneer and gilt mountings is in excellent condition, exceptions noted. The front panel shows a little crazing in one area, possibly from the sun. There is a little chip on the black adamantine on one top back corner. The bezel glass is missing; been gone a long time and the embossed brass dial has gone dark. The hands are original. The movement is complete and sound, properly signed and the pendulum is original. The clock strikes on a spiral steel gong. These “French” models do not turn up often. Height 16 inches
Sold: $360 | Date: 4/26/2003 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts