Chelsea Special Dial Chain Clock. Time only. 12-inch diameter dial. 224138.
The Chain Clock model is a very difficult example to find. They were made in the 12-inch dial size and offered three movement variations and three dial types. This example features the Special dial and is a timepiece. The serial number 150957 is die-stamped on the movement, indicating that it was produced between 1920 and 1924.
The yellow brass case has been polished, and the finish is protected with lacquer. The color is excellent due to a patina that has developed over the last 30 years. The original pair of brass eye hooks are mounted near the numeral hour positions of 10 and 2 at the top of the case. Unfortunately, the original heavy brass chains that would have once connected to the hooks and mounted the clock to the wall are now absent. I have been told by several Chelsea collectors that, currently, less than a handful with original factory brass chains and mounting plates are known to exist. The additional cost of the chains made this model expensive.
The Chelsea-made movement, a testament to excellent craftsmanship, is spring wound and designed to run for eight days. This is a timepiece you can rely on. The escapement features a balance wheel that allows the clock to be used in environments that are not stable. As a result, it will continue to run while being moved. The plates of this movement are rectangular shaped. The back plate is die-stamped with the company information. "Chelsea Clock Co. / Boston, U.S.A." and serial number 150957. The serial indicates that this clock was made circa 1920-1924. The dial has fancy applied bronze numerals and is signed CHELSEA CLOCK CO. BOSTON U.S.A. The clock has the original fancy pierced hands.
The large case measures approximately 14.5 inches in diameter across the back and is 4.5 inches deep.
Inventory number 224138.
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.
