About the Seth Thomas “Regulator No. 4” Clock
Title: Seth Thomas Regulator No. 4: A Collector’s Gem
The Seth Thomas Regulator No. 4 is a standout piece in the vast portfolio of the renowned American clock manufacturer. This clock model falls under the regulator category, known for their precision in timekeeping and distinctive pendulum swing.
Typical case materials for the Regulator No. 4 include mahogany or walnut woods, with some examples featuring brass accents. The design is characterized by a slender and elongated shape, an upright rectangular case, and a substantial weight, reflecting the internal pendulum mechanism’s need for stability.
Production of the Regulator No. 4 spanned from the late 19th century to the early 20th century, making it a desirable piece for collectors interested in antique American clocks from this era. The clock’s collectibility stems from its combination of aesthetics and functionality, as well as its association with the prestigious Seth Thomas Clock Company.
Notable features include the long brass pendulum bob suspended from a polished brass rod, the substantial weighted base for stability, and the dial, often featuring Roman numerals and intricate detailing. The Regulator No. 4’s unique design, high-quality craftsmanship, and historical significance make it an attractive addition to any antique clock collection.
Collectors should note that the value of a Seth Thomas Regulator No. 4 can vary greatly depending on factors such as condition, rarity, and level of restoration. It is always advisable to consult with a professional appraiser or auction house for accurate valuation.
Auction Records and Price History
The following 8 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Seth Thomas “Regulator No. 4” model clock. Prices vary based on condition, originality, and current market demand. Search for more records on AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com.
Seth Thomas “Regulator No. 4”, ca 1922.
Eight day, weight, time only movement. A very reliable clock that uses the same movement as a Regulator No.2, the 77B, seventy-two beats to the minute, maintaining power, Graham dead beat escapement. It is on an iron back plate.The 42 inch mahogany case has been cleaned. The normal edge dents here and there where some klutz like me will bump them into a door facing or a piece of furniture. The case has 2 functioning brass door locks, the original 12 inch zinc painted dial with a seconds dial. All the brass is polished and the clock runs well. Ly-Seth Thomas No.377, No.378.
Sold: $1,875 | Date: 1/1/2003 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks
C.1922, Seth Thomas, “Regulator No. 4” wall clock in oak case
, and in excellent condition. The exterior only of this clock has been professionally refinished to golden oak and with an attractive satin sheen; interior sides, back and mask are original as is the painted dial. The No. 4 did not sell in the quantities of the No. 2, and does not turn up that often. This clock ran in the owner’s library for the last 10 years and would be welcome anywhere. Height 42″ $900-1200
Sold: $1,950 | Date: 11/1/2000 | Source: R.O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Clock Co., incomplete regulator No. 4 or 5 {not possible to tell without case trim}, includes case carcass with side lights, door, mov’t, bracket, small wt and pendulum, c.1880
you will need to find someone with a model 4 or 5 to copy and add the side, top and bottom trim to this case. The porcelain dial has hairlines and the dial center has been repaired at the winding hole and lacquered over, and lacquer on the center has discolored a bit. Hands are correct. Potential for the right workman / collector. Ht as shown 33″
Sold: $633 | Date: 5/15/2010 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas “Regulator No. 4”, C. 1917, when the movement was first introduced by the company for their No. 2 and No. 4 Regulators.
They called it a Keystone shaped movement, with heavy polished plates, Graham dead beat escapement, maintaining power. It is fitted to an iron bracket. The number is 77B, and it is 8 day, weight, and time only. Mahogany case is 42″ high, refinished some time ago. It is not a mint collector’s clock, but is a very good looking, serviceable, running, wall weight clock, which is what most people are acquiring these days. There are 2 brass door locks, the original 12 inch zinc painted dial, with a second’s dial, and all original hands. The brass bob, weight, beat scale, dial ring, are all clean. Ly-Seth Thomas #377, #378.
Sold: $0 unsold | Date: July, 2004 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks
Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn., ÓRegulator No. 4Ò weight driven, 8 days, timepiece in mahogany case, c1921.
The mahogany case has some original finish and some additional finish in certain areas. There is one small damaged area on the top left portion of the door frame. The painted dial is in excellent condition with very minimal paint loss. The hands are original. The movement (No. 77D) is signed. Ht 411/2Ó,
Sold: $650 | Date: May 16, 2015 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1925, Seth Thomas, “REGULATOR No. 4” in oak, a presentation piece from Miss May Tittle’s Sunday School Class to the Blue Ball Congregational church. The consignor was lucky enough to buy this from the church when they were having a bake sale, and noticed the clock was not running.
Condition: as good as it gets. For reference, see Ly’s Seth Thomas book, 3rd Ed, page 281, fig 878; Ly 2004 price guide = $2480. Cost when new approx $60. Ht 38.5″
Sold: $2,100 | Date: May 8, 2009 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1925, Seth Thomas, “Regulator No. 4” in oak and in excellent original condition.
This is about the nicest No. 4 we have had, with original dial, hands, weight and pendulum (minor dings in pendulum). Original finish is medium brown with great patination. Height 42 inches
Sold: $2,200 | Date: October 18, 2003 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn., “Regulator No. 4” wall clock in a walnut case with an 8 days, weight driven timepiece movement with maintaining power, c1879.
This is a very nice example of this rare, early Seth Thomas regulator with a few minor case issues. The top left finial is a newer replacement and the cross molding on the case top is missing a 1″ section on the right side of the top. The case is a beautiful walnut and burl walnut accented piece, The porcelain dial, with its ST signature, is in excellent condition with no hairline cracks or chips. The movement is signed “STS&Co” which is “Seth Thomas’ Sons & Company” (1865-1879), the firm’s New York City subsidiary. The hands are original. Ht 47″. Note: Many of S. Thomas’s early cabinetmakers came from Germany and brought catalogs for patterns, thus many of Thomas’s better regulator cases are very similar to German “Vienna” regulators.
Sold: $6,000 | Date: October 25, 2015 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts