Nautical Instruments
Ships' Clock - Seth Thomas ca 1892
Seth Thomas is America's oldest clock maker and started operations in 1813.
The clock strikes Ship's Bells through a double strike system marking off the series of four hour watches that make up the sailor's day. Should the chiming ever get 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 and bell are in good working condition. The clock runs for two days (as designed). For best accuracy it should be wound daily. The entire back board of the clock is made of wood and this extends down behind the bell. Later models had a metal back and a metal tab on which the bell was mounted.
The exterior case of the clock is in excellent condition. The silvered face of the clock has some very slight wear around the keyholes, but this may actually just be soiled from being touched daily for winding.
The clock is approximately 6&1/4 inches in diameter and 10 inches long not including the two mounting tabs. The bell is 3&3/4 inches in diameter.
We were fortunate to run across a booklet which discusses the 
repair of four different Seth Thomas clocks including 10 pages on this Bottom Bell model. We are including it with this clock as it could be invaluable if repairs are ever needed. Click on photos for enlarged view.
Questions? Email us by clicking this link.
Price $1100
Chart or Map Weights ca 1880
This is a pair of chart or map weights which date from about 1880. They were purchased from a family estate in New England, and we believe they were American sailor made. The wood appears to be coco bolo as it is very dense, the color is deep brown and very rich looking.
The weights were used to keep unrolled maps and charts flat as the captain and his officers viewed them.
The longer weight measures approximately 21" long and is approximately 1" in diameter. It has a pattern of concentric circles inscribed in each end.
The shorter of the pair measures approximately 18 ½" long, with a diameter of 1". The ends of this weight are smooth and slightly convex. The color and finish perfectly match the longer rod. Click on photos for enlarged view.Questions? Email us by clicking this link.
Price $125
USNavy Small Boat Compass ca 1920s
Marked US Navy Bureau of Ships, this compass was made by the well known Philadelphia instrument makers John E. Hand & Sons boats Company. It was made for metal hulled as the iron balls permitted adjustments to allow the compass to compensate for the magnetic hull of the boat. Note the side opening panel which simplified adjustments. The instrument is 4 & 1/2" in diameter and 4 & 7/8" high.
Click on photos for enlarged view. Click here to contact us if you have further questions or would like additional photos. Price $175
Ross Telescope/London ca 1900 The case is marked with a “flower” mark (see photos). The telescope measures 20 ½ ” long when open, and closes to 6 1/4”. The lens is a 1 ½ ” achromatic. The telescope is finished in brass with a leather wrap. Condition is excellent. The original glass produces fine images of good contrast. The front lens element is fitted with a sunshade, while the eyepiece has a sliding dust cap. This instrument is not only a very attractive piece, but is a practical, usable telescope from a very reputable manufacturer.
Click on photos for enlarged view. Questions? Email us by clicking this link. Price $395
