Seth Thomas "Sonora Chime" Beehive Mantel Clock c. 1911

Among the most musically renowned American clocks ever manufactured, the Seth Thomas Sonora Chime series stands as a crowning achievement in Edwardian parlor acoustics.  

Cataloged as Chime Clock No. 14, this magnificent timepiece is housed in the classic American "Beehive" Gothic arch cabinet crafted from warm, figured mahogany. What makes this clock truly exceptional sits behind its hinged back door: rather than using standard wire gongs or basic coiled rods, it features an acoustic chime engine operating five nested bronze/brass bells. On every quarter-hour, the synchronized movement releases the lower chime train, sending five brass-headed hammers dancing across the bells to play the Westminster tune, concluding with a resonant chorded full-hour count.

Clock Specifications & Craftsmanship:

• Maker: The Seth Thomas Clock Company — Thomaston, Connecticut, USA   
• Model: Chime Clock No. 14 (Sonora Chime)   
• Circa: c. 1911   
• Case Details: Rich figured mahogany in the pointed Gothic "Beehive" form, with a stepped base and four button feet   
• Dial: Spun silvered dial plate with black Arabic numerals, minute chapter ring, blued-steel spade hands, and the original "Seth Thomas Sonora Chime" signature behind a glazed cast-brass bezel   
• Chime Mechanism: 8-Day dual-movement mechanical brass train playing Westminster quarter-hour chimes and full hourly strike on 5 nested acoustic bells