Chelsea Tambour Number 3 mantel clock. 223210.
Chelsea introduced their "Tambour" clock series in their 1911 catalog. It was a departure from their customary product line. Chelsea's Tambour models were made and sold to directly compete with the Connecticut clock companies' similar model lines due to their success. The Chelsea Tambour Number 3 was first included in the 1917 catalog. This version resembles the Tambour Number 2, except that the clock's head is positioned lower in the base. This version sold for just over $100.
This substantial clock, encased in a polished brass case and elegantly perched on brass ball feet, is a testament to superior craftsmanship. The applied scroll-work, well-formed and following the basic shape of the clock's bracket, is an exquisite detail that extends beyond the front facade of the case. The wood bottom board, die-stamped with the Chelsea serial number, suggests that the clock was made in 1916. The brass bezel, fitted with a piece of convex glass with a beveled edge, further enhances its unique charm. It is hinged and opens to access the dial and hands.
The dial, measuring 4.5 inches in diameter, is crafted from brass and finished with a silvered finish. It features Arabic hour numerals along a closed minute ring. The Clockmaker, "CHELSEA / SHIP'S BELL," and the retailer, "SPAULDING & CO., CHICAGO" are engraved in the center. The originality and excellent condition of this dial add to its allure. Spade-shaped hands tell the time.
The clock's movement, a testament to the Chelsea Clock Company's commitment to quality, is brass and die-stamped with the maker's trademark and serial number on the front plate. The movement, spring-driven and incorporating a balance wheel escapement, is designed to run for eight days on a full wind, ensuring reliable timekeeping. Being a "Ship's Bell," this movement strikes the nautical sequence. At 12:30, this clock will strike once. At 1:00, the movement will strike twice, and at each half-hour interval until 4:00, it will strike an additional blow. At 4:00, this clock will strike a total of 8 times. This sequence will then repeat itself by starting over. The striking is performed by a hammer hitting a heavy coil gong that is mounted inside the case. The quality of the sounds is excellent. This example is in very good condition.
The overall dimensions are approximately 7.25 inches tall, 13.5 inches wide, and 4.25 inches deep.
Inventory number 223210.
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.
