About the Seth Thomas “Ships Bell, Monitor” Clock
The Seth Thomas “Ships Bell, Monitor” clock, manufactured around 1936, is a captivating timepiece that showcases the intricate craftsmanship of this renowned American clockmaker. This wall clock, encased in a polished brass frame, features a distinctive design inspired by the iconic ships’ bells from the Monitor, a famous Civil War ironclad vessel.
The No. 7, one-day bell-strike movement within this timepiece is equipped with a hinged bezel. Although the dial exhibits some oxidation and wear, it remains in good condition and keeps accurate time. The clock stands at a height of 10 feet, making it an impressive addition to any space.
Another variant of this model, produced approximately in 1925, showcases a unique design where the clock is mounted onto a board adorned with a hand-carved sailing ship below and decorative carvings of the sun, moon, and stars around the dial. Although this particular piece requires cleaning due to accumulated dirt, the movement remains sound. The silvering on the dial has worn off, and there is corrosion on the brass, indicative of a life well-lived outside of a museum. Despite these minor imperfections, this clock radiates charm and appears to have been cherished, as evidenced by its history in a home from Maine.
Auction Records and Price History
The following 2 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Seth Thomas “Ships Bell, Monitor” model clock. Prices vary based on condition, originality, and current market demand. Search for more records on AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com.

C.1936, Seth Thomas, “Monitor’ Ship”s Bell striking wall clock, in a polished brass case and in good original condition.
This model uses the No. 7, one day bell-strike movement, and with hinged bezel. The dial has some oxidation and wear, but is generally good; runs; height 10 ‘
Sold: $450 | Date: 11/1/1999 | Source: R.O. Schmitt Fine Arts

C.1925, Seth Thomas, MONITOR Ship’s bell clock,
mounted to a board with a hand carved sailing ship below, and with a sun, moon and star carved around the clock. The movement is still sound, but is dirty; the silvering is all rubbed off the dial, and there is corrosion on the brass, evidence of a life outside. Still, this has a lot of character, and appears to have been well loved; from a home in Maine. Diameter of clock 7″, height of board 16″ $400-500
Sold: $400 | Date: 11/1/2000 | Source: R.O. Schmitt Fine Arts