About the Seth Thomas “Regulator No. 16” Clock
Title: Seth Thomas Regulator No. 16: A Collector’s Treasure
The Seth Thomas Regulator No. 16 is a timeless masterpiece from one of America’s most revered clockmakers. This model falls under the category of regulators, known for their precision and long pendulums that enable accurate timekeeping.
Characterized by its elegant and robust design, the Regulator No. 16 typically features a mahogany case with intricate inlays, brass trim, and a dial adorned with Arabic numerals. The clock’s height ranges from approximately 72 to 80 inches, making it a substantial addition to any antique collection.
Produced between the mid-19th century and early 20th century, the Regulator No. 16 is one of Seth Thomas’ most iconic creations. Its collectibility stems from its exceptional craftsmanship, historical significance, and rarity compared to other models. Notable features include a distinctive hooded case design and a large brass-faced dial with seconds hand, which were less common in regulators of that era.
Moreover, the Regulator No. 16 showcases Seth Thomas’ commitment to quality and innovation. The long pendulum, coupled with a precision movement, ensured exceptional timekeeping accuracy during a period when precise time measurement was crucial. For antique clock enthusiasts, owning a Regulator No. 16 offers an opportunity to possess a piece of American horological history that embodies the elegance and craftsmanship of its era.
Auction Records and Price History
The following 9 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Seth Thomas “Regulator No. 16” model clock. Prices vary based on condition, originality, and current market demand. Search for more records on AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com.
C.1885, Seth Thomas Clock Co., “Regulator No. 16”, 8-day weight driven timepiece, walnut case, with restorations.
Condition: the entire bottom bracket and finial have been newly made. Top 2 finials are new, properly copied; and top rt+lt return moldings are replaced.. The dial is new, however the Original dial is included [not that faded, you can re-install if you prefer]. Bottom 2″ of pendulum stick replaced. Otherwise the clock is in very good condition with good nickeled weight, pulley and pendulum. The movement has been cleaned and is in good running order. For reference, see Tran Ly’s book on Seth Thomas, 3rd Edition, Vol 1, pages 294-303. We sold this model in original condition, in Oct 2006, lot 421, for $36,000+3,600, and we still thought enough of this one to place it on the rear cover. Height 75 inches
Sold: $0 unsold | Date: April, 2008 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn., “Regulator No. 16” wall clock, 8 days, time only, weight driven movement in a walnut case with papered metal dial, c1880
the case is in need of complete restoration and is lacking the base. The side return moldings are absent and the top crest is incomplete. The dial has been repapered on the original pan. The clock retains its original weight, pulley, beat scale, bracket, movement and dial pan. The pendulum bob does not fit well on the pendulum rod due to a repair. Ht 70″
Sold: $6,000 | Date: October 26, 2013 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn., “Regulator No. 16” wall clock, 8 days, time only, weight driven movement with Graham dead beat escapement and nickel plated damascened pendulum bob in a walnut case with burled walnut highlights and painted metal dial, c1885
the case retains its original finish in very good condition with a V shaped chip in the base of one of the lower side finials. The tip of one of the upper finials needs to be reglued. The rating assembly has been reattached to the original pendulum rod. The dial has been professionally repainted by the dial house. Ht 75″
Sold: $15,000 | Date: October 26, 2013 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
J.H. Gerry, New York, N.Y., in case provided by Seth Thomas Clock Co. as a variant of “Regulator No. 16” with 8 days, time only, weight driven movement in walnut case with J. H. Gerry patent gravity escapement, c1885
this is generally good quality work, escapement changed and gravity arms added in the late 1800s to the square movement. This clock contains square form plates rather than the typical trapezoidal plates found in the standard Seth Thomas No. 16. The special glass dial signed “Gerry” shows small chips around the screw mounting holes, and some loss of paint. Note the clock runs reliably and with distinctive action of the gravity arms onto the brass keystone (pendulum hangs from the front of the movement) Also the keystone itself was replaced by the current owner, and not to the same standard as the balance of the work. A few screws have been replaced with heads that do not match. Still it is mechanically sound and will respond to additional refinement. Walnut case retains an old finish, with some losses (chip to top shell), but generally very good+ condition. Nickel reflector, weight, pulley and pendulum bob. Note also that this is one of the early “thin” cases, front to back. J.H. Gerry was an important figure in the development of the Self Winding Clock Co. Ht 76″
Sold: $5,500 | Date: October 26, 2014 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn., “Regulator No. 16” wall clock, 8 days, time only, brass weight driven movement earlier version mounted on the standard No. 3 bracket with center sweep seconds in a walnut case with black walnut back panel and burled highlights and painted metal dial, c1884
the case retains its original finish, nicely rubbed down. The upper left corner molding has a chip and indentation. The bottom three finials and finial block on center finial are replacements as well as the top finials. There is old green and yellow paint on the back. The pendulum is a period European replacement and is not the proper Seth Thomas type. The lock catch is absent and the dial has been repainted. This clock after fitting proper pendulum and replacing bottom finials would be an excellent example. Ht 75″
Sold: $10,000 | Date: October 26, 2014 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Clock Co., “Regulator No. 16” hanging jeweler’s regulator, 8 day, time only, weight driven movement with Graham dead beat escapement and sweep seconds in a carved walnut case with burl walnut highlights and painted metal dial
the case retains its original finish. The top fan has a chip in the upper right and the two upper finials have shortened tips. The bottom finial has a chip on the left. The lower outer left finial has a repaired split. The original label has some wear. The dial has a new pan and new paint, however it retains its original back plate mount.
Sold: $8500 | Date: October 27, 2018 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Clock Co, “REGULATOR No. 16” in a walnut case c1885, with a Seth Thomas movement, later converted to Gerry Gravity Escapement, weight driven, week duration.
the case on this clock is among the nicest we have ever seen, never refinished and beautifully aged with a fine crackle that has naturally oxidized. On the bottom bracket, the veneer has split at a base joint, and a couple of small chips there. Small chip on carved shell crest at top. Door latch hasp will need repair. Overall the black walnut has an attractive grain and the case is as nice in person as the photos reflect. The movement will require some additional attention. Note there are a few holes in the front plate where a side-cock was removed to make way for this rare modified escapement. The pendulum stick has been replaced and has a replaced hanger at the top. Currently requires a keystone to support the pendulum. Overall an unusual and intriguing clock that could be tuned up and enjoyed for its unique Gerry gravity escapement or used as a case for your Seth Thomas No. 16 movement. We have provided photos of the movement here and have more photos on hand if you require. Ht 75″
Sold: $7,000 | Date: October 28, 2012 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1890, Seth Thomas, ÓRegulator No. 16Ò in walnut, one weight Railway timepiece with center seconds and damascene bob.
Condition: This clock is in nice condition, mostly original, the finish rubbed to a nice sheen, one small repair to the walnut case at the top center of the door, and the dial professionally restored. Nickeled weight, pulley and pendulum with damascene pattern. Height 74 inches
Sold: $20,000 | Date: October 31, 2004 | Source: R.O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1885, Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn, “REGULATOR No. 16″ , 8-day single weight wall regulator, 12” dial and center seconds, with nickel appointments, in a /thin/ walnut case.
Condition: Virtually like new from top to bottom, this clock is in excellent original condition. Some corners and other wear areas have been professionally touched up, and the entire case rubbed and waxed to a high sheen. Original damascene pendulum is excellent; the stick has been broken once and repaired properly and repainted black. Original dial, hands, bezel, weight, pulley, rating nut and beat scale are all intact with polished nickel finish where appropriate. Orig ST issue winding crank is also intact with turned wooden handle. Optional door lock with key are in place in addition to the two standard turn-locks. There are some small scratches and paint loss on the dial. The thin case (from front to back) would have been produced prior to the introduction of the ST No. 19. Full details on these models can be found in Tran Ly’s book on Seth Thomas, 3rd Edition, Vol 1, pages 294-297 and on 301. Ht 75″ [190cm]
Sold: $36,000 | Date: October, 22 2006 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts