Presented is a perfect example
of a Chelsea Cock Co., marine ship’s bell clock in a stylish forged pink bronze case. This design dates back to Chelsea’s
beginning and was originally named the “Base and Ball” clock. In 1917, the name was changed to COMMODORE,
and it was renamed again as the CONSTITUTION. A recreation is being sold today with an inexpensive quartz movement
and 3″ dial for condsiderable money.
This one is a vintage example and is an exceptional ship’s
clock keeping accurate time compared to a quartz comparison watch. The bells sound in proper ship’s sequence and have a resounding
ring due, in part, to the Mahogany sounding board in its base. It has a 4 1/2 inch, 12 hour silvered brass dial in “new” original
condition, black Moon hands, and no seconds hand. The bronze case’s base is forged in one piece and accounts for it heavy
weight. with a decided pink cast is 3 1/2 inches deep. The bezel is hinged and is opened by a button on the left. The
design of this clock dates back to 1906, and its upgraded movement is descended from patents issued June 5, 1900, and Aug
29, 1911.
CHELSEA is etched in black upper case
letters above the six o’clock position with Ship’s Bell under. It has a 8 day time only movement with an 9-jeweled escapement,
and accounts for its good timekeeping. The serial number indicates it was made between 1975 and 1979. It weighs almost 4 pounds.
Chelsea key included.
SPECIFICATIONS:
Diameter of dial 4 1/2″ Diameter of bezel 5 1/2″
Base 6 1/2″ L x 3 1/4″ D x 7 1/2″ H Depth of case 3 1/2″
Weight 9 pounds
CONDITION:
Considering it age, and years of use it is hard to tell this clock from new except for a few tiny scratches on the back of
the case, and the lacquer which is worn in a number of places. The heart of the clock its upgraded movement works in perfect
unison with a quartz comparison watch. There is nothing like the resonant ringing of a ship’s bell from this design.
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