Chelsea Clock Co., Boston, Mass. A Type B Model 12E Deck or Engine Room Clock in a black resin case. 217013.
This model was originally marketed for use in an engine room or for use on the deck of a boat. Today, we sell a fair number of these to customers that use them in various home settings. The kitchen and the bathroom are the two most popular mounting locations today.
This fine clock was made by the Chelsea Clock Co. in Boston, Massachusetts. It was made for use by the U.S. Government. The phenolic or resin case is black in color. It features a rear mounting flange and a hinged bezel. The bezel is fitted with glass and is secured with a large screw against a rubber gasket. This case is somewhat watertight. The black dial measures nearly 5.5 inches in diameter. The time ring, Maker's name, and "U.S. GOVERNMENT" are pressed into the surfaced and highlighted with white paint. All of the numerals are displayed in Arabic format. The hour and minute hand is painted white. The sweep seconds hand is presented in red. The method for making time adjustments is by the use of a micrometer located just inside the 2:30 position.
The movement is of excellent quality. It is the 12E model. It is jeweled and features a balance wheel. The serial number "679266" is stamped on the plate. This indicates that the clock was made circa 1964.
For more information regarding Chelsea Clocks and the Company, please read Andy & David Demeter's book, "Chelsea Clock Company: The First Hundred Years."
Inventory number 217013.
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.
