The Chelsea Yacht Wheel Ship's Bell Mantel Clock. This large clock with a "Special" dial was retailed by "CHAS. C. HUTCHINSON / BOSTON / U. S. A." 226053.
This fine Chelsea Yacht Wheel Ship's Bell Clock mantel clock case is approximately 18 inches high, 12.5 inches wide, and 5.75 deep. Its size is sure to attract one's attention in any room.
Its metal base and case are attached to a mahogany platform. The surfaces retain a consistent historic patina. The present patina presents a soft, warm glow under sufficient light. The wooden base 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, fancy serpentine hands, and winding arbors.
This silvered brass Special dial features raised Arabic hour numerals, an engraved closed minute ring, and the Retailer's name and company information. The Arabic hour numerals are brass and applied at the hour positions. The Maker's name and model name, “SHIP'S BELL," are located in the center field. The name of the Retailer is located above it. This reads, "CHAS. C. HUTCHINSON / BOSTON / U. S. A."
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 1915 and 1919 based on the serial number "114970" 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. Wear areas are addressed during the rebuild. The movement is then lubricated and tested to ensure its performance.
Inventory number 226053.
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.
