About the Seth Thomas “Corsair” Clock
Introducing the Seth Thomas “Corsair” Clock, an intriguing piece from the realm of Antique American Clocks. This clock, manufactured by the renowned Seth Thomas Clock Company, is a unique example of their craftsmanship, dating back to approximately 1962.
The Corsair is distinguished by its 5.75-inch diameter brass case adorned with a screw bezel and a silvered dial. The clock’s appearance is generally preserved, although some tarnish is noticeable, particularly on the bezel. The time spring on the ship’s bell lever movement may be disconnected or broken, preventing it from running, although the strike function could not be tested.
A label bearing the name Talley Industries can be found on the back of the clock, along with a key for winding and setting. Interestingly, the Corsair was marketed as “A genuine sea-going ship’s bell striking clock,” a feature that may seem puzzling to landlubbers like myself but involves the clock striking random patterns, presumably mimicking the rhythm of ship’s bells.
In good original condition, this brass cased timepiece boasts an 11-jewel lever movement with Breguet type hairspring and compensated escapement. The dial is signed and, despite minor discoloration, remains clean and retains its original hands. The Corsair also comes in a matching barometer set and can be found detailed on Page 763 of Ly’s Seth Thomas Clocks & Movements C.1951.
This collector’s item stands at approximately 7.25 inches tall, making it an ideal addition to any antique clock collection. While some parts may require attention, the Corsair remains a fascinating piece of American horology history.
Auction Records and Price History
The following 5 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Seth Thomas “Corsair” model clock. Prices vary based on condition, originality, and current market demand. Search for more records on AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com.
Antique Seth Thomas Corsair Clock
Jul 2021 – #247 Antique American Clocks Seth Thomas “Corsair”, A 5.75-inch diameter brass case with a screw bezel over a silvered Some tarnish to the case, especially the bezel. The time spring on ship’s bell lever movement is disconnected or broken and so it does not run; I could not test the strike. A label with Talley Industries on the back. A handmade base is included, along with a key. AAC sold a nickeled Corsair last summer for $196.
Retail: $50 | Date: 01/01/2022 | Source: AntiqueAmericanClocks.com
Antique Seth Thomas Corsair Clock
Jul 2021 – #249 Antique American Clocks Seth Thomas “Corsair”, ca. 1962. “A genuine sea-going ship’s bell striking clock”, as described in the catalog. Ship’s bells, if you are a landlubber like me, make no sense whatsoever and just seem to strike random patterns at any time. The 5.75-inch case is in bright chrome with a silvered dial, and everything looks like new. The dial screws on and off to set the time and has a waterproof seal. The 7-jewel 8-day movement is running and striking at will. not have a proper key for the clock but will include a 5-pronged winder that will work. There is a name sticker on the back, and both the case and dial are signed. The Corsair had an optional base for an additional $10.95 if you did not plan on mounting it on your boat. Page 763 of Ly’s Seth Thomas Clocks & Movements
Retail: $196 | Date: 07/01/2021 | Source: AntiqueAmericanClocks.com
C.1951, Seth Thomas Clock Co., “Corsair-6”, 8-day marine timepiece, in good original condition.
This brass cased timepiece is very clean, and with a good silvered dial with only minor discoloration. The hands are original. The timepiece has an 11-jewel lever movement with Breguet type hairspring and compensated escapement with sweep second hand. This was among the better spring movements that Seth Thomas produced. Height 7.25 inches
Sold: $200 | Date: 4/26/2003 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Seth Thomas Brass Desk Clock Set, “Corsair”
With a T & S movement; a 24 Hour dial and a matching Barometer. There is a presentation plaque on the front. The back has the name of the clock, the number and other information. Not tested. The dials are 4″ Diameter; the clock/barometer is 6 1/2″ Tall x 14″ Wide.
Sold: $100 | Date: August 23, 2014 | Source: Tom Harris
Seth Thomas ShipÕs Bell Clock, the “Corsair E537-000” on a “Helmsman” base of polished mahogany.
Screw on bezel was dropped and dented, then straightened as best Papaw could. It sat here on my computer desk for several months and I didnÕt notice the dents, so they couldnÕt be too bad. 8 day ships bell strikeon half hours. Running and striking properly. “Strike-Silent” and “S-F”adjustments on upper part of the silver dial. The dial is marked for 24 hours.Made by Seth Thomas, Division of General Time, Thomaston, Conn. which meansit was made after 1931. Ly-Seth Thomas has several pages of Ships Bell Clocks, but does not picture this exact model.
Sold: $0 | Date: July, 2003 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks