Above is an original Seth Thomas Outside Bell Ships Clock, with wooden back, in especially fine condition, It dates circa 1885. Most clocks of this type have thin silvered dials with 'painted' numerals. This one has a heavier dial with the numerals stamped. I believe Seth Thomas tried this heavier dial for a short time in the long production run of this clock because they wore much better than the painted dials (very often found today in poor condition). I believe Seth Thomas went back to the thin painted dial due to the fact that the stamped dial cost more to make. I mention this since I've made a study of 'Outside Bells' over the last 26 yrs. There are a fair number of variations in their production run from ca, 1870 - 1930. I've found the stamped dial model is quite scarce and a plus for the collector since it lends itself to being found in fine condition -This clock is especially fine with original silvering and original blued steel hands. The clock is in fine running condition and I keep them running. The brass case on this clock has a fine brass patina and is in great shape. The Seth Thomas - Outside Bell is considered the 'Classic' American ship's clock. Few of these true working ship's clocks have survived in the fine original condition of this example.

These very handsome clocks strike 'Ship's Bells' through a double strike system marking off the series of four hour 'watches' that make up the sailor's day. Each four hour watch is divided into half hour periods tolled off from one through eight bells. These clocks were intended to be hung on the bulkheads of ship's pilot houses, captain's cabins, etc., and could be found in vessels ranging from the most luxurious yachts to battleships! One of these clocks was recovered from the wreck of the USS MAINE and presented to Franklin Delano Roosevelt when he was Secretary of the Navy.

This lever escapement balance wheel clock was developed in the late 1870s and continued in production through the 1920s. During its production the model was modified a number of times which results today in there being several vartiations for the collector. These clocks generally run for two days but for best accuracy should be wound every day.

Dimensions: Height 12", Width 7 1/2", Depth 4", Dial Diameter 6"
Price: $795.00