Chelsea Clock’s Tony LaChapelle (L) and Terry Kubarsky-Engel (R) congratulate Senator Scott Brown on his special award.

We’re pleased to note that, while our Boardroom Clock was introduced just this past month, it has already achieved celebrity status! At a recent Congressional roundtable luncheon hosted by The New England Council in Boston, Massachusetts Senator Scott Brown accepted an engraved Boardroom Clock, presented by James Brett, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Council.

Senator Brown addressed nearly 200 New England Council members, touching on current issues relating to economic growth and business development in the New England region.

Our Chief Operating Officer, Tony LaChapelle and Director of Corporate Sales, Terry Kubarsky-Engel, were on hand, as well, as Chelsea Clock is a long-standing and active member of the Council.

The New England Council was established in 1925 and is a non-partisan alliance of businesses, academic and health institutions, and public and private organizations. The Council’s mission is to identify and support federal public policies and to help support the collective interests of its members on important issues facing New England.

The Red Sox honored one of its legendary players and former managers, Johnny Pesky, with the gift of a Chelsea Clock “Presidential” timepiece on Saturday April 14, 2012 – seventy-five years to the day after he made his Major League debut at Fenway Park – at a special Fenway Park 100^th Anniversary celebration ceremony during Saturday’s game against the Tampa Bay Rays. Pesky, age 92, was 22 years old when he broke into the big leagues on April 14, 1942, with the Boston Red Sox. Pesky has been associated with the Boston Red Sox in various roles, including player and manager, for 60 of his 72 years in baseball. Pesky will be forever in the folklore of Red Sox and Fenway Park, with the right-field foul pole bearing the name “Pesky’s Pole,” as dubbed by Red Sox pitcher Mel Parnell.

 Trying to decide between a Chelsea Clock mechanical clock and a quartz clock? The differences between the two mechanisms are vast, and offer distinctly different experiences, depending on your preferences. Yet no matter which mechanism you choose, you can be sure you’re bringing home an exceptional timepiece that will stand, well. . .the test of time.

 To help you decide, here’s a quick overview of the Chelsea Clock Ship’s Bell Mechanical Clock and our famous Shipstrike Quartz Clock.  While both are hand assembled right here in the original factory in Chelsea, Massachusetts, by our master clockmakers, there are subtle – and not-so-subtle – differences that make each of these timepieces truly unique.

On the outside, both the Chelsea Clock Ship’s Bell and Shipstrike clocks share many of the same qualities that have made the Chelsea name synonymous with exceptional beauty and quality. Both cases are made from heavy, solid forged brass (not cast or stamped from sheet brass), hand finished and lacquered to last a lifetime. And both are available mounted on one of our solid American hardwood bases, hand rubbed to a lustrous rich mahogany or cherry finish. And, of course, both strike the traditional Chelsea Clock Ship’s Bell chimes: eight bells at 4, 8, and 12 o’clock to mark the end of a mariner’s watch, with one bell for the first half hour after, plus one additional bell with each subsequent half hour.

But the main difference between these two timepieces is the internal mechanism, which is most clearly reflected in the price of each piece. The Chelsea Ship’s Bell Clock features a key-wound 8-day movement, while the Shipstrike Clock is powered by a battery-operated quartz movement. The Ship’s Bell Clock features our patented, hand-assembled mechanism, comprised of some 364 precision brass parts – many plated with gold to resist corrosion – as well as an 11-jewel escapement.   There is no sound quite like a Chelsea Clock Ship’s Bell chime; the solid forged brass case resonates a rich, mellow tone when the clock’s leather-covered hammer strikes our patented Chelsea bell.

On the other hand, the Chelsea Clock Shipstrike Quartz Clock features a battery-operated precision German quartz movement, offering owners the convenience of an automatic, non-winding timepiece. While Shipstrike Quartz version also strikes the famous Ship’s Bell chimes, the striking mechanism is powered by an electronic current rather than by a mechanical escapement and mainspring.

Another difference between these two Chelsea clocks is in their dials: the Ship’s Bell Clock boasts a solid brass plate, hand silvered with acid-etched, enameled numerals, while the Shipstrike Quartz Clock features a machined dial with imprinted numerals. And finally, the Ship’s Bell Clock comes with a Chelsea Clock five-year warranty, while the Shipstrike Quartz Clock carries a two-year warranty.

But whether you choose a Chelsea Ship’s Bell or Shipstrike Quartz clock, there’s absolutely no difference between these two pieces when it comes to your satisfaction. You’ll be acquiring a quality timepiece made by one of America’s most renowned clockmakers, guaranteed to bring you many years of enjoyment!

If you have ever visited Morven Park in Leesburg, Virginia, home of the state’s former governor Westmoreland Davis, you most likely spied a Chelsea Clock Ship’s Bell Clock displayed in a very unusual and interesting way. If not, you owe it to yourself to pay a visit to this remarkable historic setting.

The centerpiece of the estate’s “Trophy Room” is an eight-foot-long wooden airplane propeller with a Chelsea 6-inch Ship’s Bell Clock proudly displayed in its center. And we are pleased to report that Chelsea Clock recently completed the restoration of this special mechanical timepiece, originally presented to Virginia Governor Westmoreland Davis in 1918, and now part of the historic setting’s permanent collection.

According to Teresa Davenport, Assistant Director of Development and Communications at Morven Park, the “propeller clock” was presented to Governor Davis by a military pilot as a memento commemorating the Governor’s first flight aboard a plane on September 3, 1918.

“Governor Davis was the first Virginia governor to ever fly in a plane,” says Davenport. “This highly publicized event was part of a military tournament staged by the United States Army Air Corps. at the start of WWI.” Newspaper accounts of the historic 30-minute flight report the battle plane left from the Virginia State Fair grounds and circled over the city of Richmond at “an altitude of 3,000 feet to the thunderous applause of 10,000 spectators below.”

Chelsea Clock records indicate that the 6-inch dial Ship’s Bell striking mechanical clock was manufactured by the company in the early part of 1918, and was originally sold to the Nowland Company. Unfortunately, no further information is available to trace the sale of the clock from the Nowland Company to the pilot, nor who may have mounted it to the inside of the propeller to create the commemorative gift.

“It’s wonderful to discover that a Chelsea clock played a role in this fascinating historical event,” notes Chelsea Clock CEO JK Nicholas. “Our company has an incredibly long and storied history of making precision timepieces for the US military. We are pleased and proud to add this interesting chapter to the Chelsea legacy.”

According to Ms. Davenport, the propeller clock had not been operational for as long as the staff could recall.  At some point in its history, a small padlock had been placed on the clock’s solid brass case and the key was never found.  So no one was ever able to open the bezel and wind the timepiece, which meant, unfortunately, it sat quiet for many decades.

“But this piece has long been one of the most beloved items in the Park’s collection,” adds Davenport. As a non-profit organization, Morven Park’s ongoing operating expenses and limited budget meant that returning the clock to working order was something we just could not afford. So, when Chelsea Clock offered to restore this piece, we were delighted. It is now back in its place of honor, keeping perfect time and once again inspiring admiring comments from our visitors.”

Master clockmakers at Chelsea Clock spent several weeks carefully restoring this timepiece to its original working condition. First, technicians removed the padlock using locksmith tools to access internal mechanisms. All parts and gold-plated brass gears were removed, cleaned, calibrated, and oiled and then carefully re-assembled. The clock’s original mainspring was removed and replaced with a new one, and the Ship’s Bell patented chiming mechanism was adjusted. Finally, the clock was tested for two weeks to ensure proper operation and accuracy. At the request of Morven Park, the exterior of the nickel-plated brass case was not refurbished, opting rather to retain the authenticity and weathered look of this vintage piece.

About Morven Park

A National Register Historic Property, Morven Park was for 40 years the home of Virginia Gov. Westmoreland Davis. More than 75,000 people visit Morven Park each year, enjoying entertaining and educational programming at its three museums and multifaceted equestrian center, and experiencing its beautiful scenery, historic gardens, sports fields, and hiking trails, all within its 1,200-plus acres.  The public is invited to events in every season, including Civil War reenactments, equestrian competitions, festivals, and hands-on learning programs. For more information about Morven Park and to view the Trophy Room where the restored Chelsea Clock Ship’s Bell is displayed, visit www.morvenpark.com

A symbol of solidarity and strength, the Chelsea Clock Presidential Clock is a magnificent timepiece that celebrates the enduring spirit of both visionaries and everyday people who dare to dream of making a difference. . .and do.

Throughout history Chelsea Clock timepieces have graced the homes of dignitaries, and stood in faithful observance during encounters among world officials. Our clocks’ visual appeal, combined with their rich history are just some of the reasons Chelsea clocks are often chosen as cultural ambassadors for the United States. In fact, Chelsea timepieces have been offered as official gifts by many of our country’s presidents.

In both name and design, the Presidential Clock reflects significant achievement in the art of superb clock making for which Chelsea Clock is world renowned. This exquisite piece brings stately elegance to any room, with its hand-finished solid forged brass case and rich, solid mahogany base. Boasting a 4.5” dial with traditional black Roman numerals, this classically-styled piece features a quality German-engineered quartz movement.

Strength. Precision. Endurance. These are but some of the many qualities that define a great leader. They are also some of  the same characteristics that shape the Chelsea Clock Presidential Clock and help make it a lasting symbol of accomplishment for those fortunate enough to receive it.

Whether it began as a sport or the answer to the call of venturing beyond land, the affinity for the sun, open sky, endless sea, and the adrenaline of speed make sailing a way of life. Now, Chelsea Clock has captured that passion in the Carbon Fiber Collection. These pieces echo the spirit of the sea with distinction and utility as aids in navigation.

Combining sport and elegance, Carbon Fiber’s monochromatic black encased by resplendent chrome, or Carbon Fiber and brass, make the Carbon Fiber Clocks, Carbon Fiber Barometers, and Carbon Fiber Tide Clocks an aesthetic combination of sport and elegance.

Although mainly known for its use in the car industry, this super fiber’s ability to exude strength while being characteristically light allows Carbon Fiber to be used in sailing and yachting. It’s application in sea exploration range from serving as the main material in sails to that of a catamaran.  The innovative material has also been used in U.S. Navel boat designs of  high-performance composites that are engineered for resilience and strength. Pounding ocean waves dissipate when they collide against this  high-tech fiber.

Here the power of Carbon Fiber is harnessed with modern Chelsea Clock charm to serve as a captain’s companion of motion, time and weather — from majestic coasts to balmy seas. Even for those who enjoy Chelsea Clock’s storied products, the Carbon Fiber Collection includes Carbon Fiber Flag Clock, with 12 pennant flags used in nautical communication impressed on the etched sharp black Carbon Fiber dial. In addition to its nautical uses, the Carbon Fiber Wall Clock, Carbon Fiber Desk Clock and Carbon Fiber Mantel Clocks are key pieces to the collection that would bring the spirit of sea exploration to any boat, home or office.

At a glance, the  Ship’s Bell and Barometer Set is the paramount symbol of the standards that Chelsea Clock has adhered to since 1897: exquisite craftsmanship, precision and timeless.  But if you look beyond the pristine brass cases of classic pieces you will find a confluence of scientific invention and human progress.

The Ship’s Bell history as a mechanical clock and the Ship’s Bell Barometer as a teller of the weather at sea are a testament to how one discovery, that at the time may seem insignificant, served as an integral building block to scientists for centuries.

Just as Chelsea Clock enthusiasts have placed these two pieces side by side on mantels for decades, author Kendall Haven places inventions, the barometer and mechanical clock, side by side in his book, 100 Greatest Science Inventions of All Time.

The discovery of the barometer has led to many scientific inventions. It assisted travelers in detecting weather patterns while its sensitivity to air pressure laid the groundwork for the invention of the steam engine, which inspired the industrial revolution.

Evangelista Torricelli, scientist and side-kick to Galileo Galilee, discovered the vacuum in 1643, which later led to his creation of a device that measured atmospheric pressure. Eventually, others realized that the barometer could assist in predicting weather patterns. Further improvements gave birth to the marine barometer, a nautical instrument used for tracking weather and alerting sea voyagers about inclimate weather, thereby allowing them to carve out routes based on past data.

Since the 1900s Chelsea Clock Ship’s Bell Barometers have provided readings on fluctuations in barometric pressure as well as accurate temperatures. It has assisted the United States Navy in its duties as well as served as a companion to those who navigate the seas.

In 1657, Dutch scientist Christian Huygens applied Galileo’s discovery of the scientific formula behind a pendulum’s swing. He integrated a pendulum into the clock’s makeup, forming a precise mechanical clock that enabled further scientific exploration.

Chelsea Clock celebrates the scientific discoveries of yesterday and elevates the Ship’s Bell Clock to an American classic. Since 1898, this nautical marvel has alerted mariners about their watch at sea with it signature chiming bell. Today it can be found on many U.S. Naval ships, proving its worth as an enduring timepiece and heirloom.

This week, the world of horology lost one of the shining lights of our ancient profession. George Daniels died at his home on the Isle of Man in England on October 21. Dr. Daniels defied the contemporary logic of the late 1960’s by diving into the practice of building watches, every piece of his own design and construction, by hand, in his own workshop. The rest of the world was in a mad dash to embrace the quartz watch revolution, fascinated by the idea of precision timekeeping on the wrist for mere dollars and cents. Most everyone assumed the age of mechanical watches had come to an end.

George Daniels was inspired by the work of arguably the greatest watchmaker in history, Abraham Louis Breguet, who lived and worked in Paris in the late 1700’s. Breguet was a pioneer in the development of metallurgical and mechanical technology to enhance the accuracy of watches. Like Dr. Daniels two hundred years later, he gained the attention of Royalty, both earning the coveted distinction of being horologist to the Crown. George Daniels had the rare opportunity to examine some of Breguet’s watches while doing repair work for London clock and watch dealers.

Doctor Daniels built on the groundbreaking work of Breguet, mastering the manufacture of extreme complications in his watches. He soon gained the attention of connoisseurs and collectors worldwide. He built and assembled all of his watches by hand in his atelier on one of the Channel Islands. He published a number of scholarly treatises in the field of horology, one of which, “Watchmaking” has become a classic, original editions fetching high sums. Most importantly, George Daniels inspired dozens of similar artisan/craftsmen who, in his footsteps, are producing one of a kind, hand built watches for an appreciative clientele. His legacy is assured as his watches will undoubtedly be studied and treasured for generations to come, and as his successors continue to push the envelope of precision mechanical timekeeping.

There’s nothing like a boat trip to help you escape from the craziness of life. You leave land far behind you, and your troubles seem to stay right there with them. So whether you’re a boat enthusiast or just dreaming about a nautical get-away, the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show is where you want to be October 27 – 31, 2011.

If you’ve never been to the show, let’s put it this way – there are boat shows and then there’s THE boat show.  This is THE boat show – the world’s largest and most exclusive in-water nautical get-together. Hundreds of the marine industry’s leading companies will be waiting to welcome you. In fact, this year’s show spans six sites and will feature more than $3 billion worth of boats, yachts, super yachts, electronics engines and thousands of boating accessories from every major marine manufacturer and boat builder around the globe.

Naturally, Chelsea Clock is going to be there, showcasing our newest collection of nautical timepieces, barometers and tide instruments, plus a number of our classic pieces, of course. All in a new booth that’s worth putting on your “must see” list.

We’re particularly excited about unveiling our new Voyager Collection clock and barometer set. This handsome collection is specially designed to fit more compact spaces, and is available at a very attractive price, as well.

If you can’t make it to the show, you can see the Voyager Collection and other authentic Chelsea Clock pieces in our new nautical catalog. Request your free copy via email to sales@chelseaclock.com.  And, for more information about the show, visit the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show website. We hope to see you there!