Important Seth Thomas Antique Ships Clock, Dated April 16, 1878             Stand Included. A $75.00 Value!   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 Dimensions: Cartridge Brass Case 6 1/2" x 3 1/8",             Dial Diameter 6"                         Weight 3.3 pounds Presented is a superb and very rare example of an Eight Day "Double Wind" Seth Thomas Ships clock with its patent date when FIRST INTRODUCED on April 16, 1878, imprinted on the seconds dial. It has the very early style slip on outer bezel, and an eight day, time only, movement which was likely the predecessor to the reliable No. 10 Ship's Lever.  This is only the second time we have discovered this era Seth Thomas timepiece with the same early date. This clock is running so well after 134 years that we decided to leave well enough alone rather than risk disturbing its movement and the circular wood frame upon which it is mounted. The frame can be seen from the front when the bezel is removed. The clocks that followed all have brass frames. The early Seth Thomas - Double Wind models may be considered a 'Classic' American sea going clock. Relatively few of the very old ones have survived the effects of rough usage, years at sea, and salt water corrosion. This one is in remarkable condition, and is ready for display in the home or use at sea.....a great looking collector's clock with exceptional appeal that will make a great gift, perfect for use on vintage yacht or as an important addition in a collection. RECESSED SECONDS DIAL : The placement of the seconds bit in a recessed dial with a separate bezel below the XII position is a unique feature which was discontinued with this model and others similar to it. It was never to reappear. The Fast-Slow lever is in the above slot. The over size Roman numerals on the face makes reading the dial easy.  Note the early "ST" logo just below the center hands arbor with the Seth Thomas name in Old English print beneath it. Much hairline crackling can be seen.   ACCURACY: The movement appears to be in good mechanical condition and has a regular and loud tick tock beat.  It keeps good time for three days and then begins to run slightly slow. Therefore, it is best to wind it every two or three days to maintain its accuracy using the period key which is included. It will run for three days. on a single winding. Partial side and front view  Partial left side view   The case has a mounting tab at the top and bottom to keep it secure when mounted to a ship's bulkhead such as in the pilot house, navigators shack, or captain's cabin. Seth Thomas clocks could be found in vessels ranging from the most luxurious yachts to battleships! A Seth Thomas clock was recovered from the wreck of the USS MAINE and presented to Franklin Delano Roosevelt when he was Secretary of the Navy.   About 80 percent of the label remains and is mostly legible   Side view of case showing 3 1/8 inch depth  CONDITION:  The clock face is finely crackled and slightly yellowed with age with some paint loss primarily at the winding arbors. The Roman Numerals are slightly smudged from someone's cleaning. The darkened steel Spade hands are original, but the glass has been replaced . The case has been polished and lacquered in the recent past and is in excellent condition. The maker's label on the back is about 95 percent complete. The Eight Day, Double Wind movement runs for four days. 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, Dubai, 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 refundable 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.  STANDARD 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. Our prices are quoted net to us so that the use of credit cards or PayPal incur extra charges. Terms on overseas sales are different.  If you are a serious collector don't miss out on this Seth Thomas antique ship's clock It is a worthy investment or a fine addition to a collection or as an important gift. Copyright by 2013 Land And Sea Collection. All Rights Reserved!