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This Fine Relic Has Been Sold. Thank you! Seth Thomas "Outside Top Bell" Ships Clock Ca 1900 Seth Thomas, America's oldest clock maker started operations in 1813. Their Nautical clocks first appeared in the 1860's and were the official US Navy Ships' clock for almost 100 years. STAND INCLUDED A $50.00 VALUE! Presented is a superb and extremely rare example of the famous Seth Thomas Outside Top Bell Ships clock from when it was first introduced around the Turn of the 20th Century. While one of the most decorative ship's clocks ever designed, the Seth Thomas 'Outside Top Bell' was intended for real work. Consequently, relatively few have survived the effects of rough usage, years at sea, and salt water corrosion to come down to today's collector in the fine condition of this example. Consequently, these Top Bell clocks also referred to as "Yacht" clocks are rarely seen except in books and catalogs. We are proud to have sold the original bottom bell clock by this maker that had a patent dated Nov 4, 1879. The bottom bell clocks were produced from that date until the mid 1950's and have become ubiquitous, and are not much in demand. Not so the top bell clock which is considered the rarest of the 'Classic' American ship's clock. Few of these true working ship's clocks have survived in the original condition of this example or are anywhere near this age. These very handsome clocks strike 'Ship's Bells' through a double strike system which is unique to Seth Thomas and makes a most distinctive sound. They were intended to be hung on the bulkheads of a ship's pilot house, captain's cabins,etc., and could be found in vessels ranging from the most luxurious yachts to battleships! One of the Seth Thomas clocks was recovered from the wreck of the USS MAINE and presented to Franklin Delano Roosevelt when he was Secretary of the Navy. Ship's Bells struck through the double strike system mark 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 from one through eight bells. When the chiming gets out of sequence the clock has a "Lever" that makes it easier to coordinate the chime sequence with the time without moving the hands. The clock runs for one day, and for best accuracy it should be wound every twelve hours. CONDITION: The clock came from the factory with a polished nickel plated cartridge brass case. This clock has acquired an especially attractive age patina and retains about 85% of its original plating. It has been keeping time with a quartz comparison clock, and looses about a minute a day. That said, it requires an assist to get started by a slight turn of the balance wheel which is accessible from the back. The dial is in its used condition, but with only a minor loss of paint on the acid etched Roman numerals and with very little or no loss to its silvered face. It has its original blued steel hands which are in perfect condition. The case is factory mounted on an Mahogany backboard which has about 90% of the clock's original label. From a few feet away, nothing of significance shows so the overall appearance is one of ageless beauty. .....a great looking collector's clock with exceptional charm. Dimensions: Height 9 3/4", Width 6 3/4", Depth 3 1/4", Dial Diameter 6" Weight 3 pounds 9 3/8 oz Very clean face 80% of original label remaining Side view of a rare and timeless collector quality ship's bell clock International buyers welcome, but inquire first. We have satisfied customers in Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Canada, Chile, China, Czech Republic, Democratic Republic of Congo, Denmark, Estonia, England, France, Germany, Greece, Holland, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Latvia, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Martinique, Mexico, New Zealand, Nigeria, Norway, Nova Scotia, Panama, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Romania, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Scotland, Singapore, South Africa, Spain, St. Maarten, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, USVI and the Eastern Caribbean. WARRANTY: We guarantee that this clock will be working on arrival and that our description is entirely accurate or your money back. The only conditions are that an email authorization be obtained within five days, and that the instrument is returned in its original condition and packaging, and insured for its full value. Shipping charges within the continental United States are included in this offer if we are at fault. This does not affect our policy on shipping damage which is discussed below. PACKAGING: We take great care in packaging our clocks for shipment which includes bubble wrap, placing in a box, and then placing in a larger box surrounded by impact absorbent material. However, we are not responsible, once it is turned over to the carrier. Full Value insurance is required. In the event of damage due to shipping we will assist you in all respects even to filing a claim in your behalf. ACCEPTED FORMS OF PAYMENT are Bank wire transfer, cashier's check, money order, or personal check in which case the item will be held until cleared. No checks from overseas buyers, no credit cards or PayPal accepted on this item. If you can afford the finest and rarest, then buy this rare Seth Thomas Bottom Bell clock Now! It is a worthy investment or a fine addition for your collection or as important gift. 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