About the Seth Thomas “Sonora Bell Chime Clock” Clock
Title: Seth Thomas Sonora Bell Chime Clock – A Notable Antique Timepiece
The Seth Thomas Sonora Bell Chime Clock is a quintessential mantel clock model from the revered American clockmaker. Produced primarily during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, this clock serves as an exquisite blend of craftsmanship and functionality.
Characterized by its distinctive design, the Sonora Bell Chime Clock boasts a wooden case made from either mahogany, walnut, or cherry, adorned with intricate inlays and ornamental carvings. The clock’s dial is typically brass, featuring Roman numerals and a classic minute track, while the pendulum swinging back and forth adds an enticing rhythm to its presence.
What makes the Sonora Bell Chime Clock highly collectible lies in its unique feature: a sonorous bell chime mechanism. This innovation provided the clock with a Westminster chime that would ring out on the hour, marking the passage of time with a melodious tune. The combination of quality materials, elegant design, and its groundbreaking chime feature makes this model one of Seth Thomas’ most sought-after creations among antique clock collectors.
Notable features of the Sonora Bell Chime Clock include its adjustable volume control for the bell, a convenient feature uncommon in clocks of that era. Additionally, the movement of these timepieces can be either a single-train or double-train design, which affects their striking and timekeeping accuracy respectively.
For antique clock enthusiasts, acquiring a well-preserved Seth Thomas Sonora Bell Chime Clock is an opportunity to own a piece of American horological history that combines both aesthetic appeal and technical ingenuity.
Auction Records and Price History
The following 1 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Seth Thomas “Sonora Bell Chime Clock” model clock. Prices vary based on condition, originality, and current market demand. Search for more records on AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com.
C.1920, Seth Thomas, Sonora Bell Chime Clock, rare wall
model, in very good restored condition. This is a scarce model, full details appear in Ly’s Seth Thomas book (1996 edition), page 174. Ly gives you several images so you can see the 4-bells showing through the bottom of the case. This mahogany model reflects the arts and crafts style that was popular at the time, and the case has been professionally refinished. Plays Westminster sequence on the quarter hours; same auxiliary chime movement and on-off switch as the mantel models. Height 24 inches
Sold: $3,100 | Date: 10/1/2001 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts