Refurbish your Seth Thomas Adamantine mantel clock - it's due for some TLC
In the heart of the early 20th century, a significant innovation in American clockmaking took place. The introduction of the Seth Thomas Adamantine mantel clock, manufactured in 1907, marked a turning point in the industry.
This antique clock, now in excellent original condition, is a prime example of this collectible American-made timepiece. The Seth Thomas Adamantine mantel clocks, primarily produced between 1880 and 1931, were renowned for their unique adamantine finish - a patented celluloid veneer that mimicked the appearance of expensive materials like marble and onyx, all while remaining affordable.
The adamantine finish was a game-changer, making these clocks highly popular among middle-class consumers. It helped Seth Thomas dominate the mantel clock market in the U.S. and solidify the company's reputation as a leading American clockmaker during this period.
The antique Seth Thomas Adamantine clock in question was purchased close to 20 years ago, in a store in Blockhouse, Nova Scotia, and has since been a cherished addition to its owner's collection. An avid collector of vintage and antique clocks for over twenty years, this owner has been building his collection for 11 years, as featured in a blog post on the Chelsea Clock.
Recently, the antique clock needed a good cleaning and a little bushing work. The movement was taken apart, cleaned in an ultrasonic cleaner, oiled, and placed back into its case. Four bushings were installed during the servicing, ensuring the clock's continued mechanical reliability.
The owner often reflects on the first "real" antique clock purchased with his wife, and this 1907 Seth Thomas Adamantine mantel clock holds a special place in their collection. The clock's classic design, preserved adamantine finish, and mechanical reliability have made it a valuable antique and a sought-after piece among collectors.
In summary, the Seth Thomas Adamantine mantel clocks represent an important era in American clockmaking innovation from about 1880 to 1931, combining practical functionality with elegant, affordable design that helped define mantel clocks of that period. This 1907 antique Seth Thomas Adamantine mantel clock is a testament to the enduring charm and significance of these timepieces.
Vintage clocks, led by the antique Seth Thomas Adamantine mantel clocks, have become sought-after pieces among collectors, mirroring the growing interest in home-and-garden decor. The unique adamantine finish on these clocks, originally mimicking luxury materials, made them more fashionable and attractive to the middle-class consumers, ultimately helping shift the lifestyle trend towards affordable antique items. The restoration of the 1907 Seth Thomas Adamantine mantel clock serves as a reminder of its original charm and its influence on the evolution of mantel clocks in the early 20th century.
