Original Listing Description

Up for sale is a fully tested and running 1941 Hamilton Model 21 Marine Chronometer with Gimbal SuspensionThis item is the large 85-size Hamilton Model 21 marine chronometer (not the smaller 35-size Hamilton model 22 chronometer) Only the clock and gimbal ring are included in this sale, exactly as shown in the photos.The clock is in running condition and is keeping good time. Prior service history is unknown.The clock runs steadily and continuously for approximately 56 hours after a full wind-up. A clock winding key is not included in this sale.This 70+ year old clock movement appears to be comparatively clean and the plates are in good used cosmetic condition. There are minor scratches, and possibly some dirt, oil residue or other signs of wear. See photos of clock interior.The clock dial is in good condition, with some minor scratches, scuffs, and small specks of patina (see photos of dial). There are typical rub-marks on the extreme outer edge of the dial where the bezel ring screws down upon the dial. This wear is common, and the rub marks are out of view when under the closed bezel. (See photos).All 4 clock hands are present, straight, and are in good cosmetic condition.The clock serial number is signed in 3 locations with matching serial number 4879.The thick beveled clock glass is in generally good condition, but there are a few fine 1/4 inch shallow scratches, and 2 small flea-bite indentations, each of which is fine enough that none are apparent in the photos. They are also hard to see in casual direct viewing of the clock.The silvered bezel ring interior is in good condition, with the original US Navy “Overhaul Due Jun 1990 ” clock service reminder sticker on inside of bezel. These clocks were recalled to a navy chronometer servicing facility every 3 years for cleaning and recalibration. This clock seems to have enjoyed a comparatively long tour of US navy service lasting from 1942 through 1990. Some oxidation is present on exterior surfaces.The threads of the clock case and bezel are in good mating condition, and do not “bind” unexpectedly when removing or replacing the bezel.The Brass Chronometer Case and the Gimbal Ring are in used condition with some scratches, accumulation of dirt and oxidation. (see photos)The chronometer's UP - DOWN winding power reserve indicator hand and its driving mechanism are working properly. The Up - Down indicator was used as follows: When in service aboard a ship, these marine chronometers were always wound every day, and at the same time each day, to ensure maximum timekeeping accuracy. It is the first 24 hours of operation after a full winding of the clock that isosynchronism (stable timekeeping rate) is best achieved. After 24 hours there is sometimes a slight drop-off in accuracy as the mainspring winds down from 24 to 48 hours. The Up - Down indicator was used as a visual verification that the chronometer had indeed been wound-up again for that day, and consistently for every day. If the hand passes the 24 hour mark, then it is time to wind up the chronometer again (even though it would continue running with lesser but still acceptable levels of accuracy).The brass gimbal ring, its support screws and nuts are all present and are fully functional. Oxidation and signs of prior use are evident. See photos.The clock dial is 4 and 1/8 inches in diameter Although the clock is currently functioning well and keeping good time, I cannot guarantee continued future operation or timing performance as all of the parts inside the clock are over 75 years old.No winding key is included in this sale. However, let me know if you are looking to buy one to use with this clock.Only the Chronometer clock and gimbal ring are included. No other items are included.The chronometer will be carefully secured and balance wheel "Corked" (immobilized for safe transport). The clock will be snugly packed with plenty of protective cushioning, with tracking and insurance for safe delivery. I've shipped over 20 of these chronometers with 100% of them arriving safely and in undamaged condition Please ask before buying if you have any questions. Payment and ShippingThe cost of shipping includes tracking and insurance for the full value of the item. The clock will be corked, and double boxed with plenty of protective cushioning.This item only ships to addresses in the United States. Sorry, No International Shipping for this item. Due to the delicate nature of this antique, this item only ships to addresses in the United States. Insurance and Tracking are included in the stated shipping price. No returns on this item unless it differs materially from the item description or photos. Payment is through PayPal only. Payment is expected within 48 hours of sale unless prior arrangements have been made. Note that some states may require payment of sales tax with the purchase of this item. Thank you for looking!

Note: This item has been sold and is no longer available. This page serves as a historical price reference for clocks collectors and appraisers.