About the Seth Thomas “Plymouth” Clock
Title: Seth Thomas “Plymouth” Clock Model: A Collector’s Guide
The Seth Thomas “Plymouth” clock model is a mantel clock that graced many homes during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, embodying the craftsmanship and quality for which the Seth Thomas Clock Company was renowned.
Typical case materials include mahogany or walnut, showcasing intricate inlays and delicate carvings that are characteristic of the Victorian era. The Plymouth clock’s design features a rectangular case with a slanting top and base, often adorned with finely detailed floral patterns, birds, or other motifs.
Produced primarily between 1890 and 1925, the Seth Thomas “Plymouth” clock model is highly collectible due to its elegant design, exceptional workmanship, and historical significance as a representation of American craftsmanship during the Industrial Revolution.
Notable features of the Plymouth clock include its 8-day movement with a strike on the hour and half-hour, a silvered dial with Roman numerals, and a beautifully ornate pendulum bob. The clock’s size, approximately 19 inches high by 14 inches wide, makes it suitable for both contemporary and antique settings, adding an air of sophistication to any decor.
As with any collectible item, the condition of the clock is crucial when determining its value. A well-preserved Seth Thomas “Plymouth” clock can be a prized addition to any collection, showcasing the beauty and craftsmanship that has made these clocks enduring favorites among antique clock enthusiasts.
Auction Records and Price History
The following 8 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Seth Thomas “Plymouth” model clock. Prices vary based on condition, originality, and current market demand. Search for more records on AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com.
C.1924, Seth Thomas, “PLYMOUTH’ Pillar and scroll in restored condition.
The tablet has been repainted in place, a primitive version of Mt. Vernon. The mahogany case has been refinished and the movement clean and going. Original dial is excellent, as is rear label (with some stains) Nice beginner”s clock; 8-day; see lot 214 also; Height 24′
Sold: $275 | Date: 11/1/1999 | Source: R.O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1924, Seth Thomas “Plymouth’ Pillar and Scroll in good original condition.
The only shortcoming here is the center finial, which is perhaps older than the clock and a bit too large; compare to lot 55 to see proper finial. However, this clock is otherwise original, with proper tablet of Connecticut village; 8-day, time and strike on gong; minor nicks, but quite clean; Height 25′
Sold: $400 | Date: 11/1/1999 | Source: R.O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1925, Seth Thomas, Plymouth Model, mahogany tambour clock, with 89-L movement, striking ding-dong notes on steel rods.
This clock is dirty, as-found, veneer loose at rear and the minute hand broken away. Will clean up OK; Height 9′
Sold: $55 | Date: 11/1/1999 | Source: R.O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1955, Seth Thomas, 110v electric “Plymouth” tambour clock
Westminster chime, as-found. This clock has been packed away for a while, and we were surprised on plugging it in and moving the hands to find that it chimed the quarter hours just fine, and with great tone. BUT the hands are not advancing despite the obvious efforts of the motor, so it is going to require some looking into. Note original instructions, pre-load key and silvered dial with raised bronze numerals. Original finish great, plus burled applique intact; Height 9″ $75-100
Sold: $70 | Date: 11/1/2000 | Source: R.O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas 1/2 column shelf clock: Plymouth; 2 weight.
(Case has been touched up & repaired; looks like one hand replaced; the other painted; some losses.) Running at the time of listing, not guaranteed to continue. 25″ T
Sold: $70 (6 Bids) | Date: Feb 17th, 2007 | Source: Tom Harris Auctions
Seth Thomas 1/2 Column, 2 weight clock: Plymouth;
mostly original finish; nice interior label. (New dial; losses to glass; some veneer losses.) Running at the time of listing, not guaranteed to continue. 25 1/2″ T
Sold: $60 (3 Bids) | Date: Feb 17th, 2007 | Source: Tom Harris Auctions
Seth Thomas, “Plymouth” on the dial of this ca 1813-1823 tall clock.
Seth Thomas probably made this movement with his own hands, sold it to a peddler who sold it to those making cases. During this 10 year period he made many tall clock wood movements, and never made any cases. Because the cases were made by many different craftsmen, no two cases are alike even though we call them Seth Thomas tall case clocks. This bit of history courtesy of Tom Spittler and Tran Duy Ly’s book, “Seth Thomas Clocks & Movements”. Our clock is complete and running except for the calendar mechanism, which is usually missing. It needs one wheel and a spring to make it complete. It is not overly difficult for a good repairperson to make, just takes a little time. The dial is a great deal better than the picture shows. The name, numerals, and chapter ring, are very visible, and the colors are vivid. Two old brass hands, the two small hands are replacements, seconds hand working properly. Old tin can weights and pendulum. Repairs to the pendulum rod. The case was painted inside many years ago, looks great. The old pine case is 89 inches, wood nail pegs are visible. Finials may well be replacements. We don’t find many clocks that are 180 years old, running and in generally good condition.
Sold: $3,850 | Date: July, 2002 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks
Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn., “Plymouth” model, 8 day, time and strike spring brass movement Pillar & Scroll mantel clock.
Mahogany case in a very dark original finish has some dings and scratches on the base. Original painted dial has a little wear on the lower half. Original hands and tablet.
Sold: $225 | Date: October 22, 2016 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts