Connecticut’s rich horological history is marked by numerous influential clockmakers and companies that revolutionized timekeeping. While there isn’t a specific entity named “Connecticutt Clock Co.,” several prominent Connecticut-based clock companies have left an indelible mark on the industry.
The Pioneers of Connecticut Clockmaking
The journey began in 1773 when Thomas Harland, an English clockmaker, established his workshop in Norwich, Connecticut. Harland’s dedication to crafting and repairing intricate brass timepieces laid the foundation for Connecticut’s clockmaking tradition. His apprentice, Daniel Burnap, furthered this legacy by mentoring Eli Terry, a name synonymous with innovation in clock manufacturing. Terry’s pioneering efforts in mass-producing wooden clock movements made timepieces more accessible to the general public.
Notable Connecticut Clock Companies
Several companies emerged in Connecticut, each contributing uniquely to the evolution of clockmaking:
- Seth Thomas Clock Company: Founded by Seth Thomas in 1813, this company gained a reputation for producing high-quality clocks. Thomas, initially an apprentice under Eli Terry, established his own firm in Plymouth Hollow (later Thomaston). The company was renowned for its diverse range of timepieces, including mantel, wall, and tower clocks. Its commitment to quality earned it the moniker “the ‘Tiffany’s’ of Connecticut clock manufacture.”
- New Haven Clock Company: Established in 1853, this company became one of the largest clock manufacturers globally. Originating from the endeavors of Chauncey Jerome, a prominent clockmaker, the company produced a vast array of clocks and watches. Its extensive factory complex in New Haven was a testament to its significant production capacity.
- Sessions Clock Company: In 1902, William E. Sessions and his family acquired the E.N. Welch Company in Forestville, Connecticut, leading to the formation of the Sessions Clock Company. The company was known for its diverse clock designs, ranging from ornate mantel clocks to practical wall clocks. By the 1930s, Sessions transitioned to producing electric clocks, reflecting the technological advancements of the era.
- Waterbury Clock Company: Founded in 1854 in Waterbury, Connecticut, this company gained fame for producing affordable timepieces, including the popular “Yankee” pocket watch. During the Great Depression, the introduction of the Mickey Mouse watch revitalized the company’s fortunes, leading to its evolution into the modern-day Timex Group USA.
Legacy and Impact
The collective efforts of these companies solidified Connecticut’s reputation as a hub of clock manufacturing excellence. Their innovations in mass production, design, and marketing made timekeeping devices accessible to households worldwide. Today, the legacy of Connecticut’s clockmakers is preserved in museums, historical societies, and the continued operation of companies like Timex, which trace their origins back to these early pioneers.
FAQ
1. What made Connecticut a center for clock manufacturing?
Connecticut’s abundance of raw materials, skilled craftsmen, and proximity to major metropolitan areas fostered the growth of the clockmaking industry. Innovations by pioneers like Eli Terry in mass production techniques further established the state as a hub for affordable and quality timepieces.
2. Who was Chauncey Jerome?
Chauncey Jerome was a renowned Connecticut clockmaker who popularized the brass movement clock, making timepieces more affordable. He founded the New Haven Clock Company, which became one of the largest clock manufacturers globally.
3. How did the Waterbury Clock Company evolve into Timex?
The Waterbury Clock Company gained prominence with products like the “Yankee” pocket watch. During the Great Depression, the success of the Mickey Mouse watch revitalized the company, eventually leading to its rebranding as Timex, known today for its durable and affordable watches.
4. What innovations did Eli Terry bring to clockmaking?
Eli Terry introduced mass production techniques to clockmaking, particularly the use of interchangeable wooden parts. This innovation drastically reduced the cost of clocks, making them accessible to a broader audience.
5. Are there any surviving examples of early Connecticut clocks?
Yes, many early Connecticut clocks are preserved in museums and private collections. Institutions like the American Clock & Watch Museum in Bristol, Connecticut, showcase a vast array of these historical timepieces.
