About the Seth Thomas “Suez” Clock
Title: Seth Thomas “Suez” Clock Model: A Collector’s Guide
The Seth Thomas “Suez” clock, introduced in the late 19th century, is a captivating mantel clock model that continues to intrigue antique clock collectors today. This timepiece stands out among its contemporaries due to its unique design and historical significance.
Typically crafted from walnut or mahogany, the “Suez” boasts an elegant case with a distinctive elongated shape resembling the Suez Canal, hence its name. The intricate details on the case, such as fluting, decorative brass finials, and a cast-brass suspension rod, add to its aesthetic appeal.
Produced between 1892 and 1900, the “Suez” clock is a product of the post-Civil War era when Seth Thomas was at the height of its production capabilities. This model was part of the company’s ambitious attempt to cater to diverse tastes by offering a wide range of designs and styles.
What makes the Seth Thomas “Suez” clock collectible is its rarity, beautiful craftsmanship, and historical association with one of the most significant engineering feats of the late 19th century—the construction of the Suez Canal. Additionally, the clock’s unique elongated shape and high-quality materials make it a desirable addition to any antique clock collection.
Notable features of the “Suez” include its eight-day time-and-strike movement, which strikes on the hour and half-hour, and a dial adorned with Roman numerals. The clock’s pendulum is visible through an aperture in the base, adding to its charm. Despite being over a century old, these clocks often run well when
Auction Records and Price History
The following 5 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Seth Thomas “Suez” model clock. Prices vary based on condition, originality, and current market demand. Search for more records on AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com.
C.1886, Seth Thomas Clock Co., “Suez” 8-day spring
/strike wall clock, in walnut. This clock is in original as-found condition, no effort has been made to clean or restore the clock in any way. The original painted dial has a light coat of nicotine (we wouldn’t touch it). The hands and nickel damascene pendulum are original. The extra large movement is stamped “Suez” on the cross bar, plus patent dates of 1875. The door glass is original; label inside. The one minor defect is the pendulum rating assembly broke off and the bob is simply glued on to the stick. These parts are available from Timesavers. This is how you like to find them. 44 inches
Sold: $2,750 | Date: 10/1/2001 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn., “Suez” wall clock with an 8 day spring driven time and strike movement in an ebonized finish case.
The ebonized case is in excellent condition. The dial is original and also in excellent condition with no loss but is slightly warped. The hands are original. The movement is signed. The strike is on a cathedral gong. The pendulum bob is damaskeened. Overall an excellent example of the Suez model.
Sold: $750 | Date: April 29, 2017 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1883, Seth Thomas Clock Co., “Suez” in walnut, 8-day time/strike wall clock.
Condition: Case in very clean condition with original finish. Original painted dial has some paint loss (will need restoring). Hands and nickel-plated damascened pendulum are original. There is a small chip missing from the left topside molding and the right top corner. There is a small decorative square block missing the left corner of the top crest. The right side exists that can be used as a pattern. The right bottom drop is missing a very small tip that can be restored. Nice clean label inside case. A hard to find clock that will respond to minor restoration. For reference, see Ly’s Seth Thomas book [2004] page 328; Ly gives a value of $3,500. Height 44 inches
Sold: $2,700 | Date: May 7, 2005 | Source: R.O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn., “Suez” model wall clock in ebonized case, 8 days, time and strike spring movement, c1883
dial has warped slightly and shimmed to rectify issue. However, overall this clock is in exceptionally nice original condition, certain to please any Seth Thomas collector. Seth Thomas called this finish “ebony”, however much of this finish was simply black lacquer over miscellaneous hardwood. Still, this is a wonderful original example of the Suez model, retaining original finish, nicely rubbed to soft sheen. Glass in door is original with imperfections This was a $4000 clock at the height of interest. Ht 44″
Sold: $1,100 | Date: October 25, 2015 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Clock Co., Thomaston, Conn., “Suez” perpetual calendar wall clock, 8 day, time and strike, spring driven movements in a walnut case with painted metal double dial, c1886
the clock is in outstanding original condition including finish, paint on dials (some minor flaking), calendar rolls, label (abrasions) and damascene pendulum bob. This Seth Thomas model calendar clock is documented in neither Miller’s nor Ly’s reference books but is 100% original and factory made. This is the first example we have handled in over 30 years and Chris Bailey writes: “I have seen another of these calendars at a friends in Rockville, CT. As I recall theirs was in cherry”.. Ht 44″
Sold: $7,500 | Date: October 29, 2011 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts