Seth Thomas Antique Appraisal

Seth Thomas "H. Morton, Oakland, Cal." Wall Clock

This is an antique Seth Thomas wall clock, likely from the late 19th or early 20th century, encased in a rectangular wooden frame, possibly oak, given its visible grain and warm, medium-brown finish. The clock features a prominent white circular dial with bold black Roman numerals for the hours and smaller increment markings for minutes. The hour and minute hands are black and simple in design. Notable inscriptions on the face include "H. MORTON, OAKLAND, CAL." at the top, and "SETH THOMAS" at the bottom, indicating both the retailer/distributor and the manufacturer. The wooden casing exhibits intricate craftsmanship, with decorative carving or incising around the circular bezel of the clock face, including scrollwork or foliate patterns in the corners. The top of the case features a stepped cornice, and the bottom is adorned with a decorative shelf-like base supported by two ornate carved brackets and a central pendulous finial. The wood shows signs of age, including a noticeable patina, and some areas appear to have minor scuffs or wear consistent with its vintage nature, particularly on the edges and raised surfaces of the carving. There are no major visible cracks or significant damage, suggesting good overall preservation for its age. The overall aesthetic is characteristic of the Arts and Crafts or Mission style, prioritizing natural materials and handcrafted details. The clear readability of the dial and the visible Seth Thomas branding point to a well-regarded manufacturer.