Seth Thomas Clocks

Introduction

Seth Thomas Clocks is a name and symbol of value, excellence, and craftsmanship. The results are shown in the variety of sophisticated styles Seth Thomas clocks have produced since 1813. Seth Thomas is recognized as one of the most respected brands of clocks in the world and is the longest established clock maker in the United States!

Seth Thomas has a great and impeccable reputation for producing masterfully crafted grandfather clocks. Seth Thomas clocks are also known for designing and producing some of the country's most renowned tower clocks which include the tower clock at Grand Central Station in New York! Seth Thomas's reputation has been well earned. Their blend of quality and impressive design has made Seth Thomas the industry's premiere clock maker in the 21st century also. Seth Thomas's grand collection of clocks ranges from classic forms with wonderful chimes to unique styles crafted with contemporary metals, colorful resins, and aged finishes. Seth Thomas also produces a wide variety of timepieces that are perfectly suited for gift giving for the office as well as the home. Seth Thomas is a name recognized and trusted by consumers of all age groups and backgrounds.

Seth Thomas Company History

Seth Thomas Clock Company has been one of the most prolific and long lived clock companies. The quality of Seth Thomas products has always maintained at a very high level. If you go to the Lafayette, Indiana area, you will find about 50% of the antique clocks out there are made by Seth Thomas. They have been that popular! Through their conservative growth and taking advantage of the new ideas of others, Seth Thomas was able in its early years, to enjoy financial stability, whereas many other companies faced financial difficulties.

Seth Thomas was born in Wolcott, Connecticut in 1785. In 1807, at the age of 22, Seth Thomas went to work for clockmaker Eli Terry. Seth Thomas then bought out Terry's factory, together with partner Silas Hoadley, in 1810. In December 1813, Seth Thomas also bought out Heman Clark's clock making business in Plymouth Hollow. Seth Thomas continued Heman Clark's wooden movement tall clock production after buying out his company. In 1817 Seth Thomas began making the wooden movement shelf clock. These clocks were originally cased in pillar and scroll cases until 1830. After that, bronze looking glass and other styles became popular and were used. In 1842, brass movements were first introduced to Seth Thomas clocks. The first brass movement clocks were cased in the popular O.G. case which was made until 1913. In 1853 Mr. Thomas incorporated the Seth Thomas Clock Company, so that the business would outlive him. Seth Thomas died in 1859, and Plymouth Hollow was renamed Thomaston in his honor in 1865.

After Seth Thomas' death, many new styles of clocks were introduced by his sons. They were all designed in what they thought would math Seth Thomas's very conservative style. Some famous styles were the Regulator clocks that were introduced in 1860. Spring driven clocks were introduced in 1855. Other famous styles introduced were the Perpetual calendar clocks that were made from 1863-1917. Walnut kitchen clocks were made from 1884-1909. Marble clocks, wood mantel clocks, black enameled iron cased clocks, oak kitchen clocks, tambour clocks, chime clocks were all introduced in the late 1800's to the early 1900's. The electric clock was first introduced in 1928.

Something unique to many Seth Thomas clocks from 1881 to 1918 is that they have a date code stamped in ink on the case back or bottom. Usually, the year is done in reverse, followed by a letter A-L representing the month! For example, April 1897 would appear as 7981 D.

In 1930 a holding company named General Time Instruments Corporation was formed to unite Seth Thomas Clock Company with Western Clock Company. In 1968, General Time was bought by Talley Industries, and in 1979 the headquarters was moved to Norcross, GA. In June 2001 General Time announced that it was closing its entire operation. The Colibri Group acquired Seth Thomas. The NAWCC (the National Association of Watch and Clock collectors) purchased from Seth Thomas their collection of historical records, drawings, photographs, advertisements and documents. Seth Thomas Clock Company is now owned by the Colibri Group.

Seth Thomas Clocks is a name and symbol of value, excellence, and craftsmanship! The results are shown in the variety of sophisticated styles Seth Thomas clocks have produced since 1813. Having a Seth Thomas clock in your house adds beauty, style, uniqueness, masterful craftsmanship and a piece of American history to your home! Seth Thomas clocks are available at fine department stores, gift and specialty shops, office products distributors and many home fashion retail stores. Enjoy your new Seth Thomas purchase!