I bought this ST 8 day at a UK auction today, it is all there, no major surprises when I got inside. The case is rosewood veneer which needs some replacement in places and the bottom rail has shifted downward no doubt as a result of the impact of the the weight when the cord broke.
On the back is a painted set of characters,either
68811 or 6881l.
Maybe one painted panel has been replaced in the distant past?
Can anyone suggest a model type and year date?
Thanks,

Peter

Peter,
I don't know when they started doing it, but some Seth Thomas clocks have a date code, written backwards. The ones I have heard of are later, but I wonder if your's might have been made January 18, 1886? Is the movement or label marked with a "Plymouth Hollow" or "Thomaston" city? I think close to 1865, the town name was changed to Thomaston. (for Seth Thomas' town). I think they are called tripple deckers (?), and the flower in the middle is a Fuschia.

Andy

Thanks Andy,
The movement is marked Thomaston CT.
The dial has the square within circle logo and a very elaborate ST within.

Peter

I actually thought that style of clock would be older than 1886, so we'll see what others have to say about that. At first I thought it might have been 1868. I don't see the number code on too many ST clocks.

Andy

I always thought the month was a letter, could it be a L indicating December? But they may have used numbers also.
Attach some more photo's.
Very nice clock.

Gary

More photo's? ok.

The all important number is revealed under the camera to be clearly an L. Quite formally presented not an hidden id.
6881L December 1886

Peter

Here's the top reverse painting, some damage but minor,

...and here is the children playing with fire.

A further inspection has revealed that quite a lot of the thin rosewood veneer is loose, which will be a challenge. The pillars and their marbling (?) are in good condition and will just need a gentle clean

Peter,
I know almost nothing about clocks, but YOURS sure is a Beauty! Congratulations!

Very Nice!