A Chelsea Marine Clock used by the U. S. Life-Saving Service clock. Rare. 224144.
The United States Life-Saving Service was a United States government agency that grew out of private and local humanitarian efforts, spearheaded by the Massachusetts Humane Society, to save the lives of shipwrecked mariners and passengers. It began in 1848 and ultimately merged with the Revenue Cutter Service to form the United States Coast Guard in 1915.
The case is mounted on a circular mahogany wood plate. The red brass base case is finished in nickel and boasts a historic patina. Its condition is best described as well-used. This base case measures about 5.5 inches in diameter and 2.5 inches deep—the bezel screws in place.
The 4.5-inch diameter is stamped from copper, professionally re-silvered, and restored to new condition. The graphics, including the Roman-style hour numerals, segmented minute ring, subsidiary seconds display, etc, are painted. The face proudly bears the inscription "Chelsea Clock Company, Boston. U.S.A. / U.S. Life-Saving Service."
Chelsea's movements are of excellent quality and, as a result, have built a solid reputation for reliability. The spring-driven marine movements power the mechanism for eight days between windings. The movement design is robust. It is constructed with 7-jewels, a Breguet-style hairspring, a compensating balance, an engraved bridge, cut and hardened steel pinions, and ground and polished pivots. The back plate is die-stamped with company information and serial number 34073. This serial number confirms this example was made between 1905 and 1909. This movement version uses a Fast / Slow rate adjustment hand positioned on the dial.
This is an exceptional find for collectors of early Chelsea clocks. They are a passionate and dedicated community, eagerly seeking purpose-built marine clock examples like this one.
Inventory number 223144.
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.
