Devon & Cornwall Police called at 5am after two suspects forced entry, with museum expected to reopen Thursday and security review underway.
Around 17 antique pocket watches and a flint lock blunderbuss attached to a bayonet were taken from Royal Albert Memorial Museum and Art Gallery yesterday, local police report.
Devon & Cornwall Police were called at around 5am on 10 September to the museum, which is operated by Exeter City Council.
Police say they believe that two suspects forced entry to the premises before a number of items were taken.
Detective inspector Paula Trevett said: “I would encourage anyone with information that they think may be relevant, or if you have seen or heard of the whereabouts of the items taken, please get in touch.
Councillor Philip Bialyk, leader of Exeter City Council said it was “deeply saddened by this theft and are working with the police to investigate.”
“We take our role as custodians of RAMM’s collection very seriously. The gallery has been secured and a thorough review of security is underway.
“Our hope is that the items, which are of great importance to the people of Exeter and Devon, can be recovered.
The museum is expected to reopen to the public on Thursday 11 September, with access to the affected gallery potentially limited.
A scene guard remains in place and officers are making enquiries in the area, the police said.
Anyone who has information, or footage that may assist us is asked to contact police on 101 or via our website quoting log 64 of 10/09/25.
