About the Seth Thomas “Santa Fe” Clock
Title: Seth Thomas “Santa Fe” Clock Model: A Collector’s Guide
The Seth Thomas “Santa Fe” clock model is a captivating mantel clock that graced homes in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This iconic timepiece, part of the American-made Seth Thomas collection, showcases an intriguing blend of design aesthetics and mechanical precision.
Typically crafted from walnut or mahogany, the Santa Fe clock’s case exhibits a rich, warm finish that adds to its antique charm. The case design features a rectangular shape with a distinctive arched top, inspired by the mission-style architecture of the famous Santa Fe Railroad. The dial, often white enamel or brass, is adorned with Roman numerals and features decorative spandrels on either side.
Produced between 1897 and 1906, the Santa Fe clock model is a sought-after collectible due to its rarity and historical significance. Its unique design, combining mission-style architecture with traditional mantel clock mechanics, makes it an attractive addition to any antique clock collection.
Notable features of the Seth Thomas “Santa Fe” clock include a robust time-and-strike movement, pendulum visible through a glass door, and a striking Westminster chime on the hour. Additionally, some versions may feature decorative accents such as intricate carvings or gilt details, further enhancing its collectible value.
Collectors appreciate the Santa Fe clock for its combination of historical relevance, craftsmanship, and unique design elements that set it apart from other Seth Thomas models. As with all antiques, proper care and maintenance are essential to preserve this exquisite piece of American horology history.
Auction Records and Price History
The following 5 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Seth Thomas “Santa Fe” model clock. Prices vary based on condition, originality, and current market demand. Search for more records on AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com.
Seth Thomas Clock Co., rare “SANTA FE”, city series walnut mantel clock, complete with all its metal leaves and damascene pendulum, 8-day with cathedral gong strike and lighter walnut dial surround.
we’ve not had one of these for about 15 years, and even then a couple of the metal leaves were missing. This clock has its original finish, and the varnish is fine, but has deteriorated and crazed on the leaves, some of it flaked off to reveal the silver nature of the leaves. Even the little “berries” are still present in the center of the base. The dial was professionally repainted some time ago, and looks fine. Tablet is original. The original label is inside the case bottom, dark and worn, but legible. Ly price guide for 2004 = $1000. Ht 22.5″
Sold: $403 | Date: 5/15/2010 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas City Series, another one named for a western city, “Santa Fe”, C. 1886.
This particular clock was made February 1889, according to the factory stamp. The walnut case make to look like it was constructed of logs, rough lumber, cactus, and leaves of brass. Many nails of brass, more for looks than holding anything together. The case is 22.5″ high, has been refinished, I can’t imagine that job. Excellent original glass, identical to the clock referenced below; full black label inside, old Seth Thomas pendulum. New paper dial on the old pan. 8 day strike and alarm. Strikes on the cathedral gong, alarms on a bell behind the gong stand. This has always been a tough one for the collectors to find. I may have had 5-6 over the years and no two were exactly alike. Ly-Seth Thomas #222.
Sold: $735 | Date: July, 2004 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks
Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn., “Santa Fe” shelf clock with a spring driven, 8 day, time and strike lyre movement in a walnut case with applied metal leaf decorations.
The case is in excellent condition and has a later finish. The hands are original. The dial has is a later paper replacement. The lyre movement is signed. The movement strikes on a cathedral gong. The nickel pendulum bob is nicely damascened.
Sold: $1400 | Date: May 19, 2018 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn., “Santa Fe” city series mantel clock, 8 day, time and strike, spring driven movement in a carved walnut case with applied metal leaf decorations.
The case is in good condition with a remnants of original finish left over from the start of a refinishing job. Sides of crest have been glued back together. Veneer is lifting from the top of the case. The paper dial is replaced. The veneered dial mask has a pressboard substrate. The Seth Thomas lyre movement is signed and is has had some of the stopworks removed. Glass is original. The gong is a replacement. The nickel pendulum bob is nicely damascened. Decent black paper label inside the case. We sold this same model in our April 2018 sale for $1400.
Sold: $500 | Date: October 27, 2018 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Santa Fe Clock
with seconds bit; T and S; partial label. 6 1/2″ (Roughness.) This lot is in rough, as is, as found condition.
Sold: $120 | Date: September 30, 2011 | Source: Tom Harris Auctions