A Chelsea Clock Co. Zig-Zag Marine clock. 226066.
This vintage Zig Zag course clock was made by the Chelsea Clock Co in Chelsea, Boston, Massachusetts, around 1960-1969.
This brass bulkhead clock features a cast brass case measuring 7.25 inches in diameter and a 6-inch circular dial.
The brass case retains a historic patina. Chelsea collectors will quickly observe that this example is hinged at the top of the case and not on the side. Further inspection reveals two electrical contacts/terminals designed to be wired to the ship's steering servos. A cam mounted on the rear of the movement opens and closes an electrical circuit. When activated, the clock is designed to signal the ship's steering mechanism to automatically change course, thereby preventing enemy torpedo boats from plotting an accurate torpedo solution.
The 6-inch diameter dial is finished in silver with black Arabic hour numerals and five-second exterior markers. A sweep second hand moves around the dial. Also located on the dial are a start-stop lever at the two o'clock position and a fast-slow rating wheel adjustment.
The 8-day jeweled time-only movement is of good quality. It is powered by a coil spring. The escapement features a balance wheel, allowing the clock to continue running while being moved. As a result, these clocks were popular in marine environments.
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 226066.
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.
