About the Seth Thomas “Helmsman” Clock
Introducing the Seth Thomas “Helmsman,” a distinctive marine-themed clock from the late 20th century. This collection includes three variations, all bearing the “Helmsman” moniker, as evidenced by the labels affixed to each piece.
The first model, produced around 1936, showcases a 8-day Ship’s Bell Strike mechanism. The case, primarily made of mahogany, features a diagonally matched mahogany veneer front and polished gold plate on the wheel spokes, sash, and feet. The clock measures approximately 13.5 inches wide and 8.25 inches high. The silver dial boasts near-perfect painted numerals, and the hands are original and in excellent condition. This model is equipped with an 8-day fine lever, 7-jeweled movement No. 115, which strikes the ship’s bells.
A second version of the “Helmsman,” also from approximately 1936, features a mahogany cabinet and brass base. The clock measures 10.5 inches wide and 9 inches high. It is fitted with an 8-day fine lever movement that strikes the ship’s bell on the half hours. A 4-inch silver dial, marked for both 12 and 24 hours, adorns this model.
Lastly, a combination clock and tide indicator, the Seth Thomas/General Time brass “Helmsman,” was also produced during the late 20th century. This set includes an 8-day Ship’s Strike marine clock and a “Tide Guard” battery-powered tide indicator. The lacquered brass cases, glasses, and metallic dials are all in very good condition. The yacht wheel clock’s German movement ticks
Auction Records and Price History
The following 3 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Seth Thomas “Helmsman” model clock. Prices vary based on condition, originality, and current market demand. Search for more records on AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com.
Seth Thomas “Helmsman”, 8 day Ship’s Bell Strike, ca 1936.
Ships wheel circles and cabinet are mahogany with front of diagonally matched mahogany veneer. The case is 13.5 inches wide, 8.25 inches high. Wheel spokes, sash, and feet are in polished gold plate. Silver dial with painted numerals is near perfect. Hands are correct, entire case is original and near perfect. Fitted with 8 day fine lever, 7-jeweled movement No. 115. Strikes the ship’s bells. Ly-Seth Thomas, 1996 Edition, No. 1445.
Sold: $387 | Date: January, 2005 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks
Seth Thomas ships bell, “Helmsman”, ca 1936.
Clock and base both have a label that calls them “Helmsman”. Cabinet is mahogany with a brass base, ship’s wheel circle and spokes, sash, and body of the case. The clock is 10.5 inches wide, 9 inches high. Fitted with 8 day fine lever movement, striking ships bell on half hours. Excellent 4 inch silver dial, marked for 12 and 24 hours. Running and striking properly. Ly-Seth Thomas #1445.
Sold: $0 unsold | Date: June, 2004 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks
Seth Thomas/General Time brass “Helmsman” 8 days, ship’s strike marine clock, and “Tide Guard” battery-powered tide indicator, late 20th century
the lacquered brass cases, glasses, and metallic dials are all in very good condition. The yacht wheel clock’s German movement ticks and strikes, quartz tide clock not tested. 4″ dials
Sold: $90 | Date: May 4, 2013 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts