Seth Thomas Regulator No. 2. This oak case example is in an old finish. 225129.
The Seth Thomas Model Number 2, a clock steeped in history, has always been a very popular choice. This model, with its first iteration in the 1860s, enjoyed a production run of over 100 years. Over this period, the Number 2 underwent several design changes, including a slight redesign of the mechanism and base moldings. As a result, we can date many of these clocks within a 20-year range. This fine example, a testament to the craftsmanship of the late 19th century, was made sometime around 1890. It was initially marketed as a small regulator for use by railroads, schools, fire departments, offices, and other institutions. Today, homeowners decorate their offices, kitchens, living rooms, and game rooms with this versatile design, connecting them to a rich historical past.
This case is constructed from oak and retains its original finish. The case has been rubbed down and waxed. The result is a pleasing warm color. The dial bezel and the lower rectangular door are fitted with glass. Looking through the lower door, one can view the pendulum's side-to-side motion and, over time, the lowering of the weight. The Clockmaker's label can be found pasted to the bottom board inside the case. It has darkened with age.
The No. 2 model, known for its unwavering reliability, is a testament to the craftsmanship of its time. The weight-driven movement, a mark of good quality, is the early movement. It features well-finished rectangular brass plates, a Graham deadbeat escapement, and maintaining power. The movement is designed to beat at 80 beats per minute and run for 8 days between windings. The works are secured to a large iron mounting bracket 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 features a dotted minute ring and Roman-style hour numerals. You should also notice that the seconds register is slightly smaller than those on later models of this form. The Clockmaker's name is boldly painted on the dial's face.
This fine example measures approximately 36.5 inches in length overall, 16 inches in width, and 5.75 inches in depth.
This Seth Thomas model was made circa 1890.
It is inventory number 225129.
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.
