62. The Chelsea Clock Co. A Thing of Beauty

If I’m not mistaken, it was John Keats who said “A thing of beauty is a joy for ever.” That pretty much sums up Chelsea Clocks. This company is the oldest functioning clock company in the United States, and they make clocks at the highest levels of refinement and luxury. They still make mechanical clocks with their iconic solid brass case. The breadth of their offerings is significant, and they still run a robust repair shop to keep these beautiful timepieces running in top shape. You will find Chelsea clocks on naval and private ships, in homes around the world, and they are even a steadfast presence in the White House.Today on the podcast we have the pleasure of talking with Tony LaChapelle, the President and COO of Chelsea Clocks. In our conversation, we discuss the history of the company, the current structure of their business and production facilities, the nature of the “ship’s bell clock”, and how Chelsea has maintained their relevance for more than a century. We even discuss their long relationship with Tiffany & Co. and the production of clocks for their business. If they are good enough for Tiffany, they are certainly good enough for anyone! While we discuss the range of Chelsea’s activities, you certainly need to hold one in your hand to appreciate them. When you first feel the literal gravity of these timepieces you will start to understand the difference. Here are a few places to find Chelsea Clocks in person, and more can be found on Chelsea's retail locator.Deprisco Jewelers, Boston, MA (The Dogwatch can personally vouch for this business as we have worked with them for a decade, including a very important ring...); Shreve, Crump, and Low, Boston, MA and Greenwich, CT;  Tiffany and Co. , Boston, MA and New York, NY; Phillips' Clock Shop, Swampscott, MA; F.L. Woods Nautical,  Marblehead, MA; Long's Jewelers, Nashua, NH;  Gorman Clocks.,Tiverton, RI; Lux, Bond and Green Jewelers,  West Hartford, CT; Scully & Scully, New York, NY; Hamilton Jewelers, Princeton, NJ; Maryland Clock Co., Davidsonville, MD; Skipjack Nautical Wares and Marine Gallery,  Round Pond, ME and Portsmouth, VA;  Henne Jewelers, Pittsburgh, PA; Bluewater Books & Charts, Fort Lauderdale, FL; Fisheries Supply Co., Seattle, WA; Captain's Nautical Supply, Seattle, WA; Land, Sea and Sky, Houston, TX.