About the Seth Thomas “Yale” Clock
Title: Seth Thomas “Yale” Clock Model – A Collector’s Guide
The Seth Thomas “Yale” clock, introduced in the late 19th century, is a quintessential example of American clockmaking craftsmanship. This mantel clock, with its distinctive design and exceptional quality, has become a coveted piece among antique collectors.
The Yale model is typically constructed from high-quality hardwoods such as walnut, cherry, or mahogany, lending an air of elegance to any room. The case design features a rectangular shape with a flat top and base, adorned with intricate inlays and finely carved details, creating a visually striking presence.
Produced between the 1870s and early 1900s, the Yale clock’s longevity in production is testament to its popularity and enduring appeal. The clock’s collectibility stems from several factors: its association with the renowned Seth Thomas Clock Company, its iconic design, and the high-quality materials used in its construction.
Notable features of the Yale clock include a finely crafted brass movement, striking an hour bell on the hour, and an eight-day duration without winding. The dial, usually of white enamel or brass, is adorned with Roman numerals and finely detailed hands. Some variations may also feature painted scenes or intricate carved details on the case, adding to their value and desirability for collectors.
The Seth Thomas “Yale” clock represents a significant milestone in American clockmaking history, marrying functional precision with aesthetic elegance. Its enduring popularity among collectors is a testament to its timeless design and exceptional craftsmanship, making it an essential addition to any serious antique clock collection.
Auction Records and Price History
The following 4 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Seth Thomas “Yale” model clock. Prices vary based on condition, originality, and current market demand. Search for more records on AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com.
Seth Thomas Clock Co. one of their clocks in the College Series, this one is the, “Yale”, ca 1900.
This case is walnut, has been cleaned, and stands around 23″ high. They all have 8 day movements with half hours strike on a wire bell. This one has an alarm that rings on a brass bell. Pendulums, labels both inside and on the back, gong bases, glasses, dials, and hands, are all alike or very similar. The dial is a replacement and the hands may be also. Some glasses may be different and shape of the door may vary, but otherwise all six are similar. The label on the back is practically all intact, the label inside is about 75 percent. The movement is running briskly and the strike and alarm features are functioning properly. Ly-Seth Thomas No. 2264.
Sold: $150 | Date: 7/31/2010 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks
Seth Thomas Clock Co. one of the six clocks in their College Series, this one is, “Yale”, ca 1900.
Oak case is 23″ tall, and extremely crusty and dark. Definitely has never been touched by humans. Everything inside and outside is original, the glass is great, good label, very good pendulum, and the original dial is not all that bad, just a little soiled. The dial is signed, 8 day ST movement, alarm movement, brass bell that the gong rings on, and a coil gong for the movement to strike hours and half hours on. Dial rings and door latch are correct. Other than dark and crusty there are a few tiny wood/veneer chips around the edge of the top. Ly-Seth Thomas No. 2264.
Sold: $78 | Date: 7/31/2010 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks
Seth Thomas Clock Co. another of the College Series, the “Yale”, ca 1900.
Identical to No. 650 except not as nice. This case is skinned along the base, but has fewer chips on the top. The glass is original and is very good, dial is as good as the other, pendulum is correct, and the dial rings are good. The label is rough, hands not right, alarm movement and bell are missing, but the 8 day running movement is fine. It will take some work to clean this one up. Sorry I did not wipe the dust and grime off the case for the picture. Time is Money you know. Ly-Seth Thomas No. 2264.
Sold: $62 | Date: 7/31/2010 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks
Seth Thomas “Yale”, ca 1909
one of the Seth Thomas famous “College Series”. There are six in the series, all were 23 inches high, made in old oak cases, had 8 day movements, and striking a cathedral gong on the half hours, alarms on a bell. Dials are 6 inches, this on replaced with a signed white paper dial, otherwise original. Old label, glass, and pendulum, and runs. Ly-Seth Thomas No.1099.
Sold: $252 | Date: July, 2002 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks