Refurbish the Seth Thomas Adamantine Mantel Clock for a Fresh Tick
A Treasured Timepiece: The Story of an American Seth Thomas Adamantine Mantel Clock
In the small village of Blockhouse, Nova Scotia, a remarkable antique clock has spent the past 20 years in the care of its current owner. The clock, a Victorian period Seth Thomas mantel clock, boasts the distinctive Adamantine finish, a celluloid veneer that was patented by Seth Thomas Clock Company in 1880 and introduced around 1881-1882.
The Adamantine veneer was a revolutionary material for its time, allowing Seth Thomas clocks to replicate the luxurious appearance of expensive materials like marble or alabaster at an affordable price. This innovative finish gave the clocks a unique and elegant look, contributing to their popularity and enduring legacy.
When the author purchased the antique clock in 2000, it was already in very good condition. However, after nearly two decades of service, it required some TLC. The stripped speed regulating gear needed repair, and bushing wear was found in the clock. Four bushings were installed, and the clock was reassembled and oiled after repair. It was then relocated to another room following servicing in December 2017.
The antique clock's home before servicing was an upright piano. The author, who has been collecting and restoring antique clocks for over 11 years, reflects on the first "real" antique clock they purchased with their wife. The clock, they say, has been a source of fascination, a passion that was highlighted in a featured article on the Chelsea Clock blog.
The antique clock, a Seth Thomas Black Mantel Clock, is suitable for any mantel. Despite its age, the clock is in excellent original condition, save for a slight aging of the clock face. It remains a testament to the craftsmanship and innovation of the Seth Thomas Clock Company, and a cherished piece in the author's collection.
[1] Source: Seth Thomas Clock Company History
In the realm of home-and-garden decor, the Seth Thomas Black Mantel Clock stands as a vintage treasure, its Adamantine finish echoing the luxurious elegance of antique clocks. This particular piece, nestled in the author's collection, was once paired with a piano, a testament to its fitting partner, the mantel clocks. As fashion-and-beauty trends come and go, the timeless charm of antique clocks, like this one, continues to captivate, reflecting the lifestyle of connoisseurs who appreciate the art of craftsmanship and the enduring legacy of iconic brands such as Seth Thomas.
