Seth Thomas Regulator No. 2. This is an oak case example. 222062.
The Seth Thomas Model Number 2 has been a very popular clock since it was first made in the 1860s. This model has enjoyed a production run of over 100 years. Over this period, the Number 2 experienced several design changes. These included slightly redesigning the movement and base moldings. As a result, we are able to date many of these clocks within a range of 20 years. This fine example was made sometime around 1900. It was marketed as a small regulator for railroads, schools, fire departments, offices, etc.
This case is constructed in oak, and it retains an original finish. The finish is stable and exhibits areas of crazing. It is unusual to find this model with an original finish in such fantastic condition. The dial bezel and the lower rectangular door are fitted with glass. Looking through the lower door, one can view the side-to-side motion of the pendulum and, over time, the lowering of the weight. The Clockmaker's label can be found pasted to the bottom board inside the case.
The No 2 model built a solid reputation on the reliability of its performance. The weight-driven movement is of good quality. It features well-finished rectangular-shaped brass plates, a Graham deadbeat escapement, and maintaining power. The movement is designed to beat eighty beats per minute and run for eight days between winding. The works are secured to a large iron mounting bracket which is attached to the backboard. This mounting bracket also supports the pendulum. The pendulum is constructed with a wooden rod that supports a large brass-faced zinc bob. This swings behind the brass-covered cylindrical weight.
The clock dial is original to this clock and is painted on zinc. It measures approximately 12 inches in diameter and is in good condition. It does have a small number of areas that have experienced some losses.
This fine example measures approximately 36.5 inches long overall, 16 inches wide, and 5.75 inches deep. It was made circa 1890.
It is inventory number 222062.
Seth Thomas was born in Wolcott, Connecticut, in 1785. He was apprenticed as a carpenter and joiner and worked building houses and barns. He started in the clock business in 1807, working for clockmaker Eli Terry. Thomas formed a clock-making partnership in Plymouth, Connecticut, with Eli Terry and Silas Hoadley as Terry, Thomas & Hoadley. In 1810, he bought Terry's clock business, making tall clocks with wooden movements. Seth chose to sell his shares in the partnership in 1812, moving in 1813 to Plymouth Hollow, Connecticut, where he set up a factory to make metal-movement clocks. In 1817, he added shelf and mantel clocks. By the mid-1840s, He successfully transitioned to brass movements and expanded his operations by building a brass rolling mill and a cotton factory. In 1853, He incorporated the business but continued to be the majority shareholder. This clock business expanded until it became one of the "BIG Seven" in Connecticut. Their product line had offerings that competed at every price point, from kitchen clocks to precision regulators. Seth Thomas died in 1859. The community of Plymouth Hollow so revered him that they changed the name on July 6, 1875, to Thomaston in his honor. After his death, his son, Aaron, took over the company's leadership. Aaron is credited with increasing the business by adding a number of new case styles and improving production methods. The company went out of business in the 1980s.
