The Chelsea Yacht Wheel Ship's Bell Mantel Clock. This large clock with "Special" 8.5-inch diameter dial was retailed by "George W. Welch's Sons / New York." 224113.
This fine Chelsea Yacht Wheel Ship's Bell Clock mantel clock is one of the larger sizes offered by the Chelsea Clock Company. The case is approximately 25.5 inches high, 19 inches wide, and 8.5 deep. Its impressive size is sure to attract one's attention in any room.
The metal base and case are cast in red brass. The surfaces have been refinished and protected by lacquer. The color presents a warm glow, and the patina is superb. The metal is mounted onto a mahogany wooden base. This provides a sturdy platform for the clock to rest on. The dial bezel is supported by a shield-shaped hinge on the right and locks close with a push-button latch on the left. One opens this bezel to access the "Special" dial, hands, and winding arbors.
This silvered brass Special dial features raised Arabic hour numerals, a closed minute ring, the Retailer's name, and company information. The Arabic hour numerals are brass and applied at the hour positions. The Maker's name, working location, and model name," SHIP'S BELL," are located in the center field. The name of the Retailer is also located here. This reads, "George W. Welch's Sons / New York." Fancy steel hands display the time.
The Chelsea Clock Co. made high-quality movements designed to run for eight days once fully wound. The strike train is formatted on a ship's bell striking arrangement on a coil-shaped gong mounted inside the case. This means it will strike the traditional ship's bell code - one bell for each half-hour on a four-hour watch. The watch starts at 12:00. At 12:30, this clock will strike once. At 1:00, it will strike twice. This progression will continue until eight blows are struck at 4:00, and then the process starts over. This format is most often used in nautical situations. The gong's sound is lovely, with a deep, rich tone that is sure to please.
This Chelsea clock was made between 1925 and 1929 based on the serial number "166246" die-stamped into the movement's back plate.
This clock is sold fully serviced and in excellent working order, a testament to its quality and durability. The movement has been completely disassembled and cleaned. Areas of wear are addressed while being rebuilt. The movement is then lubricated and tested to ensure its performance.
Inventory number 224113.
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.
