Antique Seth Thomas Ogee Shelf Clock – 30 Hour Brass Movement, Pre-Civil War Working Timepiece

A genuine mid-19th century American timepiece.

This authentic Seth Thomas Ogee (Column & Cornice) Shelf Clock, produced in Plymouth Hollow, Connecticut circa 1856–1864, remains in lovely, honest condition and is currently running and striking as found.

Over 160 years old and still keeping time.

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Historical Significance

This example features the desirable brass 8-day weight-driven movement, striking the hour on its original cast iron bell. The interior paper label reading:

“Brass Clocks – Seth Thomas – Plymouth Hollow, Conn.”

remains present, helping date the clock firmly to the pre-Civil War era during Seth Thomas’ important early brass production period.

These Plymouth Hollow examples represent an important transitional era in American clockmaking — when brass movements replaced earlier wooden works and durability significantly improved.

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Documented Early History

Interior pencil inscriptions remain visible inside the door and appear to read:

• January 23rd 1871
• May 18th 1888

These period handwritten dates document decades of early ownership and service history. Few surviving examples retain this kind of internal timeline.

This clock was not an attic discovery — it was a working household clock for generations.

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Features

• Circa 1856–1864 production
• Brass 30 Hour time & strike movement
• Hour strike on original gong
• Original Winding key
• Original iron weights
• Original interior Plymouth Hollow label
• Painted Roman numeral dial with floral corner decoration
• Reverse painted lower tablet with floral motif
• Open center dial showing exposed gearing in motion
• Solid ogee case with intact columns and molded cornice

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Condition

The case is structurally strong and intact moldings. The finish presents warmly with age-appropriate patina.

The painted dial shows expected craquelure and honest aging consistent with its mid-19th century age — no heavy modern repainting.

The reverse painted tablet retains attractive color with minor paint wear consistent with age.

The movement is currently running and striking properly as found. No recent restoration has been performed.

This is a well-preserved, honest example with authentic character — not a heavily refinished or artificially improved piece.

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Why This One Stands Out

Original label present.
Documented 19th-century inscriptions.
Running movement.
Strong case integrity.

An elegant and historically important addition to an early American interior or serious clock collection.

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Professionally packed and fully insured shipping.
Local pickup welcome.

Mechanical Clock Disclaimer

Important Information About Mechanical Clocks

Mechanical clocks are precision machines made up of many moving parts. Even when serviced and running properly, they may require periodic adjustment, maintenance, or servicing over time.

All clocks are tested and confirmed to be running at the time of listing unless otherwise stated. However, due to the nature of antique and vintage mechanical clocks, long-term accuracy and performance cannot be guaranteed.

By purchasing this clock, the buyer understands and accepts that:
• The clock is sold as-is
• Mechanical clocks may require future adjustment, cleaning, or servicing
• Ongoing maintenance and care are the responsibility of the owner

No warranty or long-term mechanical guarantee is implied or provided.