About the Seth Thomas “Sharp Gothic” Clock
The Seth Thomas “Sharp Gothic” mantle clock, produced around 1902, showcases a distinctive design and exceptional craftsmanship. The walnut veneered case stands at approximately 19.5 inches tall and is remarkably well-preserved, with intricate burl grain patterns throughout the exterior. Notably, one finial tip is missing, and there’s a minor veneer nick on the base’s right rear. The clock features an ornate waterfowl glass that has been rebacked with black paint, enhancing its visual appeal.
The original dial exhibits signs of touch-up paint, with flaking becoming more apparent each time the clock is handled, suggesting it may require repainting in the future. The timepiece runs smoothly, striking hours on a coil gong. This model is noteworthy as Seth Thomas steeple clocks are relatively scarce, with few examples produced.
Dating back to 1879, another version of this clock, identified as Ly-Seth Thomas No. 1081, features an eight-day time/strike mechanism coupled with a special alarm. This early railway “alarum” model includes a unique lever on the upper left side of the case that can silence the alarm. The strike train activates the alarm instead of using a separate movement.
This particular clock is in very good condition, boasting a rosewood veneered case with minor scratches and a small piece of missing veneer on the bottom corner of the door. The original painted dial displays some wear and repairs to a few small flakes. The tablet and hands remain original, adding to the clock’s authenticity. An article in the NAWCC Bulletin (Feb. 2000, pg 85) showcases an example of this clock and
Auction Records and Price History
The following 2 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Seth Thomas “Sharp Gothic” model clock. Prices vary based on condition, originality, and current market demand. Search for more records on AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com.
Seth Thomas mantle clock, “Sharp Gothic”, ca 1902.
Walnut veneered case is 19.5″ high and in “almost” perfect condition. The veneer, particularly on the front has a burl look, the grain going ever which way. Note that one finial tip has taken a hike, and there is one veneer nick on the base, right rear. Wonderful waterfowl glass has been rebacked with black paint, looks good, and should hold the pretty scene. The old original dial has had a heap of paint touchup, all outside of the time ring. More flaking each time the clock is handled and someday it will have to be repainted. One day movement strikes hours on a coil gong, running real well. We almost never see Seth Thomas steeple clocks, very few were made. Ly-Seth Thomas No. 1081.
Sold: $166 | Date: July, 2003 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks
C.1879, Seth Thomas Clock Co., “Sharp Gothic”, 8-day time/strike/ special alarm steeple clock. This clock is fitted with an early version of Winward’s new eight-day railway “alarum”. The strange lever on the upper left side of the case was used to silence the alarm. The strike train is used to activate the alarm, rather than the use of a separate movement.
Condition: Rosewood veneered case in very nice condition in original finish with minor scratches and a small piece of veneer missing on the bottom corner of the door. Original painted dial has some wear, some repairs to a couple of small flakes. Tablet and hands are original. An article in the NAWCC Bulletin of Feb. 2000, pg 85 shows an example of this clock and the alarm. See also lot 348 this catalog. C. L. Horton has sold a similar clock with the same butterfly tablet. Note the original ST alarm was removed in England at the time. Ht. 21″
Sold: $125 | Date: May 8, 2009 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts