The Chelsea Auto Clock A. Chelsea, Massachusetts. 221197.
The "Chelsea Auto Clock A" was marketed to be used in an automobile. The rose-colored brass case has been recently polished and is quite heavy for its small size. The back flang measures 4.5 inches in diameter. The case is intended to be mounted directly to the automobile or its' dashboard. Three screw holes are provided in the flang. Clocks like these were accessories during the golden age. They were accessories for expensive automobiles and boats of the day. This case is designed to be nearly airtight when the bezel is screwed into place. It would have to be because the automobiles of the period were often open, and the dirt roads were very dusty.
The silver dial measures 3.25 inches in diameter. The silver background is a stark contrast to the painted black graphics. The dial is signed "Chelsea" within the seconds display. The Retailer's name is now somewhat faded. It appears to be John Bliss & Co.
The movements in these clocks are very good quality. This one was a leftover from the Boston Clock Co and is so stamped on the backplate. It is spring wound and is designed to run 8-days. The works are jeweled, seven in total. The escapement features a balance wheel that allows this clock to be put in environments that are not stable. As a result, it will continue to run while being moved. The two nickled plates of this movement are circularly shaped. The backplate is die-stamped with the company information. The serial number "37546 B" found on the movement suggests it was made in 1907.
Inventory number 221197.
The Chelsea Clock Company Board of Directors met for the first time on July 28, 1897. The Board consisted of Whipple N. Potter, Jr., President, Charles H. Pearson, Treasurer, Reginald Foster, Clerk and Secretary. Allen L. Shepherd served on the Board with the elected officers. This first group of individuals was not together long. The Chelsea firm persevered and has enjoyed a long run of success as a result of making clocks of superior manufacture. This company made many clocks. Some of which were in the style of the Willard timepiece or banjo clock, the E. Howard Model No., 70 and more famously, marine clocks. This company remains in business today.
