Antique ship's bells are one of the most unique, one of a kind maritime antiques available which makes them very collectable. Most ships only have one bell and the name of the vessel was traditionally engraved or cast onto the surface of the bell, often with the year the ship was launched and the ships port of registry.

The ship's bell also played a major role in the routine of shipboard life. It was traditionally rung once for every half hour to indicate the ship's time and the sound of eight bells marked the end of a four hour watch. The bell was also rung to warn other vessels when in reduced visibility or in the event of emergencies. A constantly ringing ship's bell is also internationally recognised as a distress signal.

The ships, bell had pride of place aboard the ship and it was usually located on the bow or Fo'c'sle. It was often located near the anchor windlass because the ship's bell was also rung to indicate how many shackles of anchor chain had been let out when the ship was being anchored.