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Clocks, Watches/seth thomas mantel clock
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Question
I just bought a Seth Thomas mantel clock at an auction and was just wanted to figure out how old it was. Here is all the information off the clock: Paper tag on back of door says Seth Thomas Clocks Division of General Time Instruments Corp. and gives directions and guarantee. It says it is for clocks having an A200 series 8 day pendulum strike movement. Plus written in blue ink was K102 (not sure if that was from manufacturer or previous owner). On the inside (stamped on metal clockworks) is 4506 and 4609 i think because it is hard to read. The face opens up and it's brown (possibly walnut). Any information you could give would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
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Crystal, there were many Seth Thomas/General Time clocks made after they merged in 1931. I have one very similar to yours. There is very little information available on the exact dates of these clocks. I think that soon after this date they started producing a combination of electric/mechanical hybrids that used an electric motor to wind the springs, and then electric clocks. You can find some very good information by Googling "Seth Thomas General Time" and choosing the first item submitted by The Clock Depot. Sorry I could not give you more specific information on your clock, but if I find any additional information I will let you know.
John Newman
THE VILLAGE CLOCKSMITH
Old Prattvillage
Prattville, Alabama
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Answers by Expert:
John Newman
Expertise
As much as I would like to offer values of clocks, I am not a certified appraiser and will not venture into giving an unresearched guess. There is very little published information on what I consider to be the value of "modern production clocks". Considerations are what the clock originally sold for, the condition of the case and movement, and particularly the area in which you live, the demand and the economy. ALSO, WATCHES ARE NOT MY FIELD. However, I can advise the clock owner on proper maintenance of a clock to keep it running, small corrections and adjustments and how to move a clock without damaging it. I can also advise on obtaining parts for clocks. It helps if you can send any information on the clock movement which is usually found on the back plate of the movement. I have been a clockmaker for about 35 years and was plant engineer in the mid 90's and later operations and engineering consultant at Emperor Clock Company in Fairhope, Alabama. I now have my own clock shop.
Experience
One of my greatest accomplishments was traveling to China to assist a clock factory in building clocks to the standards which we required. With the proper specifications and quality control, some beautiful clock cases were built. The factory people from the wood carvers to the plant manager were very congenial, friendly and I left a lot of wonderful friends when I returned from my trips.
Organizations
Chamber of Commerce
Small Business Committee
Publications
Horological Times, a publication of the American Watch and Clockmakers Instute. Collaberated column author, with Photos and ideas for clock movement conversion article.
Education/Credentials
Associate of Science Mechanical Engineering Technology
Emperor Introductory Clock Repair (Eventually taught a portion of the class after becoming employee)
Awards and Honors
Small Business of the Quarter (Prattville, Alabama)
Leadership Class of 2009 (Autauga County, Alabama)
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