About the Seth Thomas “Rebecca at the Well” Clock
Title: The Seth Thomas “Rebecca at the Well” Clock: A Collector’s Delight
The Seth Thomas “Rebecca at the Well” clock, introduced in the late 19th century, is a fascinating and captivating novelty timepiece that has become a coveted collectible among antique clock enthusiasts. This clock model, part of the company’s extensive line of novelty clocks, is a testament to the Seth Thomas Clock Company’s dedication to crafting intricate and visually striking timepieces.
The “Rebecca at the Well” clock typically features a wooden case, often made from mahogany or walnut, meticulously carved with exquisite detail to depict the biblical story of Rebecca drawing water from the well. The case design is adorned with intricate scrollwork and ornamentation, enhancing its aesthetic appeal. The clock face, usually positioned at the top of the well, displays the time using Roman numerals and finely crafted hands.
Produced between 1870 and 1910, this model represents a significant era in American clock-making history, characterized by an emphasis on artistic expression and innovative design. The “Rebecca at the Well” clock, with its captivating narrative and exceptional craftsmanship, is a prime example of the Seth Thomas Clock Company’s commitment to producing clocks that were not only functional but also visually engaging works of art.
What makes the “Rebecca at the Well” clock particularly collectible is its rarity and the high level of skill required to craft such intricate carvings. Each piece tells a story, not just of timekeeping, but also of the artisans who painstakingly created these masterpieces. Notable features include the detailed depiction of Rebecca, the well, and the surrounding landscape
Auction Records and Price History
The following 6 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Seth Thomas “Rebecca at the Well” model clock. Prices vary based on condition, originality, and current market demand. Search for more records on AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com.
“Seth Thomas Sons & Co. N.Y.”, on the dial, Thomaston, CT. on the movement.
This is “Rebecca at the Well”; their pattern No. 8002, complete and original excepting one frond of the palm tree is missing. Ca 1876. Notice that this clock is painted every inch with extraordinary colors of their time on the garments and other features. If I did not know better I would say it came from the factory painted. A true artist did the work. It is so unusual you will want to keep it like it is. 8 day round, French style movement is properly signed; it has an outside count, bell strike and is running. Metal case is 16 inches high. Some minor paint loss, chip on the heavy beveled glass, but the porcelain dial is almost perfect. Ly-American, Volume 2, #843. With this outstanding paint job the clock would have brought close to 1000 dollars if everything were nice. As is, my estimate is .
Sold: $675 | Date: June, 2004 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks
Seth Thomas Sons & Co., New York, “Rebecca at the Well” 8 days, time and strike, figural mantel clock, c1870
the finish on the figures has been nicely restored, but part of the palm tree is detached and needs to be reapplied. The title on the black base has been added later. The beveled glass is fine; the dial has hairlines and minor losses. The movement is correct but untested, and the pendulum is absent Ht 15.5 in without detached frond
Sold: $170 | Date: May 15, 2016 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Sons and Co., New York, “Rebecca at the Well” 8 days, time and strike, figural mantel clock, c1870
the cast spelter case has an old bronze finish that looks to be original. One leaf of the palm tree is detached but not noticeable The original signed porcelain dial has a few small chips around the winding holes; the thick beveled glass is fine. . Movement is properly signed, but the rear case door is absent, and the minute hand is wrong. Ht 15″
Sold: $200 | Date: May 4, 2013 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1870, Seth Thomas Sons and Co., New York, “Rebecca at the Well”, 8-day time/strike figural mantel clock.
Condition: Cast spelter case with nice old bronze finish that looks to be original. There has been a repair to the palm tree. The original dial signed Mitchell Vance and Co., New York” is in good condition with wear to the numbers. Hands are original. Movement is properly signed. Height 17 inches
Sold: $320 | Date: May 7, 2005 | Source: R.O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1875, Seth Thomas’ Sons and Co., Pattern 8003, “Rebecca at the Well”, in good condition.
The gilt finish appears to have been touched up. The porcelain dial is OK, with some minor chips around the winding holes. Hands, pendulum, crystal and movement original, and is running OK. A decent example of this model. Height 16 inches
Sold: $350 | Date: October 18, 2003 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1870 Seth Thomas Sons, Thomaston, Conn., 8-day time/strike figural mantel clock labeled: ÒRebecca at the WellÓ. The dial is signed Ò Mitchell Vance and Co, N. Y.Ó.
Condition: Case has been nicely restored with a bronze like finish and the base repainted. The porcelain dial is damaged and has hairline cracks. The hands are original. The beveled door glass is perfect. Still a decent example of this model. Height 17 inches
Sold: $250 | Date: October 31, 2004 | Source: R.O. Schmitt Fine Arts