Clock from Seth Thomas - Fine craftsmanship greatly impacts design
Unveiling the Charm of an Antique Seth Thomas Adamantine Mantel Clock
In the heart of a collector's home, a Seth Thomas Adamantine mantel clock ticks away, its intricate design and subtle charm captivating all who lay eyes on it. This particular clock, purchased close to 20 years ago in the quaint village of Blockhouse, Nova Scotia, holds a special place in the heart of its owner.
The author, who has been building their collection of vintage and antique clocks for the past 11 years, developed a fascination with these timekeepers as a child, influenced by the schoolhouse clock in their grandparents' kitchen. Over the years, they have amassed a collection of over 200 clocks, with this antique piece being the first one they ever bought.
The clock's case, designed with fine scrolling detailing, some of which may have been painted gold, is what initially drew the author to the clock. To recreate the original gold detailing, water-based gold acrylic paint was used, and excess paint was wiped away with a wet rag, resulting in a more subtle yet striking effect that accentuates the fine scrolling.
Adamantine veneer, a patented celluloid veneer that simulates the appearance of marble, onyx, or other stones, was widely used in clock cases in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Seth Thomas Clock Company began using Adamantine veneer on their mantel clocks after acquiring a license to the patent from the Adamantine Manufacturing Company, which originally developed the veneer process in the 1880s.
While the exact date of when Seth Thomas Clock Company acquired rights to use Adamantine veneer is not definitively known, it is believed to have occurred in the late 1880s or early 1890s. This acquisition allowed Seth Thomas to produce attractive, durable, and lower-cost clock cases that resembled fine stone finishes, making Adamantine a popular choice for mantel clocks during the Victorian era.
During servicing in December 2017, 4 bushings were installed, ensuring the clock's continued accuracy and reliability. The author's wife also plays a role in their clock collection, often sharing her love for these timepieces and contributing to their growth.
Recently, an article about the author's blog was featured on the Chelsea Clock blog, further highlighting their passion for antique clocks and the unique stories behind each one. As the author continues to add to their collection, the Seth Thomas Adamantine mantel clock remains a cherished piece, a testament to the enduring beauty and charm of antique clocks.
The author's collection of vintage and antique clocks, including the cherished Seth Thomas Adamantine mantel clock, adds a touch of elegance to their home's interior-design, blending seamlessly with their home-and-garden lifestyle. This passion for antique clocks, ignited by the schoolhouse clock in their grandparents' kitchen, has transformed into a lifestyle that embraces the vintage charm of clocks like the antique Adamantine model.
