Seth Thomas Office Calendar No. 4, circa 1865

Seth Thomas double dial office calendar clock No.4. I have been told that this is the earliest version of the No. 4 calendar. All original except possibly the movement to calendar linkages which appear hand made, and the calendar hand, which was made here in my shop. I purchased this clock from Nelson Auction Gallery April 14, 2008. Brass 8-day pendulum regulated time only movement with stop work, signed Seth Thomas, Plymouth Conn. I have also been told that this may be the #41 movement and that this version has the Mix Bros. calendar works. The calendar is a perpetual calendar and automatically corrects for the days in each month and leap year (if I can figure out how to properly set it). Based on the Plymouth movement stamp, the time when this clock appeared in the Seth Thomas catalog, and the type of calendar works, I believe this clock probably dates to around 1865. It is unusual for a clock this early not to have pined plates, but there were apparently exceptions.

The pictures show the clock "as received" and after restoration restoration. I now have the movement rebuilt and running and the calendar works cleaned up as best I can and operating [see the 4th. picture]. This calendar works is riveted together and cannot be easily disassembled. There was some loose veneer on the bezels with a few small pieces missing. The dials were completely repainted with an "antique white" finish by The Dial House on the original zinc plates. The veneer has been repaired, and the case "refinished or refurbished". Actually, most of the original shellac finish was retained. The rough spots were smoothed, and a new thin layer of shellac applied (the veneer was very fragile and the shellac give it a little additional strength and durability). Finally the shine was reduced with 0000 steel wool followed by a coat of paste wax. Much of the patina and "character" of this fine old clock was retained. I expect to keep this clock in my personal collection and run it everyday.

NOT FOR SALE AT THIS TIME

        email:  bobby@greenfieldstore.com

[above] After restoration with restored dials


[above & below] After restoration - door open



[above] Movement and calendar works after cleaning & restoration


[above] As received before any restoration

[above] As received - door open view

[above] Calendar works as received before cleaning
[below] Back of movement showing linkages as received

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but is presented with no guarantee. Please send any additions or corrections to:

          bobby@greenfieldstore.com