161.           $4000

Seth Thomas “Office Calendar No. 10”, ca. 1886.  This is the first version of this model, with the fenestrated panel in the middle.  Later versions had the two dials next to each other and used a long-drop pendulum.  The 49-inch case is walnut with an old finish, still clear but with some patina.  The door glass is modern; the four finials are correct and probably original.  In fact, the whole clock is largely original.  The dials are chipping and discolored but may well be original.  The hands are likely original.  The upper dial board is split at the right side and repaired, the screw holes are well worn, the finish is rough.  Remarkably, the center panel is all original but there is at least one repaired break.  The lower dial, like the upper, is probably original, with chipping and fading. The 8-day time-only movement is unsigned but ST origin and found in other examples.  It is running, despite the dirt, without problem; the cast iron weight is proper and runs down the right side.  The pendulum bob is damascened nickel, but the nickel is worn from polishing.  You can live with it.  The R.T. Andrews calendar movement needs attention – the day advances but the date does not.  Moreover, the rod connecting the time movement to the calendar has gone missing and has been replaced with a copper wire, which does not quite fit.  An adjustment will be needed there.  The roller papers are in good condition. There is a label on the back of the door that states that this clock was put into service on May 9, 1879; I was just a young pup then. This clock isn’t perfect, but it’s darn good.  Schmitt Horan sold a very nice example last November for $5000, while Cottone’s sold one that same month for $3500.   $4000–$5000.