My Telechron Clock Collection

[TheVTCGuy]

I wanted to show my (meager) Telechron Clock collection. In 1909, Ellis Warren obtained a patent for electric timekeeping, but by 1916 decided battery powered clocks were too innacurate and impratctical. He devised a system of monitoring the 60hz frequency of AC power to regulate time. He also introduced the movement that was completely encased in oil, decreasing wear and increasing longevity. In the mid 1920s, Telechron was purchased by GE, and the clock faces showed GE-Telechron, until the 1950s. The GE clocks were spectacularly succesful and held huge market share through the 1970s. Below are my five favorite. These are not valuable by any stretch, together they probably are worth $1,000 to $1,500, but I really enjoy research and collecting them!

The first picture is my pride and joy, with an interesting story. After GE purchased Telechron, they wanted to exploit the new product, and combine it with some of their own. In 28,29,30 and 31, that clock was given to anyone that purchased a GE refrigirator. It takes the same appearance as the “monitor top” fridge and is made of cast iron. There are two models of this clock, mine is the second generation, from 30 or 31. It has subtle differences from Gen 1, 28 and 29, but I am still searching for one to complete my collection; (anybody know any? ).

The second is a prime example of the Art Deco style, and is from 37. It has the classic “mirrored” look that was popular back then. Blue was a very popular as was amber and green. These were bedroom clocks and some had lighted dials.

The third is called the: “House Timer” and from 39 or 40. It is extremely interesting in that it is the first example of a clock timer. The metal protrusions are pulled out or pushed in, and operate an AC-plug in on the back of the clock. It was designed and marketed so you would plug in your radio and never miss a program. When the time came for the program to air, the radio automatically turns on (and off). It was an expensive clock for it’s time, priced at $20.

The fourth is from 37 and called: “The Embassy.” It was designed and marketed to sit on an executive’s desk, and sits on mine. The brass encasing adds a send of class, I love the way it looks.

The Fith was a standard shelf clock, from 37 or 38. I like the look on my old radio.

These clocks are all at least 75 years old, have never been serviced, and all keeping perfect time. That is a testiment to the Telechron design and quality. My eventual goal is to have a large display case, with all these clocks and some advertisements from the era. What’s next? Not even sure, but I keep looking and am sure I’ll come up with some other Telechron clock I want.