Antique Gilbert ClocksTake me to the Auctions! Based in Winsted, Connecticut, the new factory was finally completed in 1873. Gilbert employed another well known name in horology circles, that of George B. Owen, who over the next five decades would design and oversee a complete range of innovative and functional clock designs in touch with the times. As with many clock making companies of the era, there was always financial pressure on them to succeed in what was an extremely competitive arena. Despite producing many great quality clocks there was a serious downturn in the business around the early 1900s, a time when a countrywide recession brought hardship to many manufacturing companies, and not just clock makers. Over the period spanning the late 1800s and early 1900s the factory had expanded significantly, unfortunately at the same time profits were harder to come by. The company continued until 1914, when the company was finally unable to continue under the management of Owen and a new manager was appointed, Charles E. Williams to try to change the company's fortunes. The devastating consequences of the 1929 Stock Market crash were to have dire repercussions for the manufacture of antique Gilbert Clocks. At the time of the great crash Gilbert were embarking on new and exciting developments in electric clocks. Unfortunately this proved to be their downfall because of the expenditure and so the company closed its doors in 1932. However, like a Phoenix rising from the ashes, a new company was formed in 1934; the William L. Gilbert Clock Corporation. The company continued making antique Gilbert Clocks right through World War II, unlike many of its peers. Their manufacturing techniques had incorporated clock case made from paper mache, which proved a life saver when most other factories were banned from using any metals unless for the War effort. Surviving for another thirty years until profits became so slim that there was no real alternative, the company was sold off to Spartus Corporation and integrated into its manufacturing business. It is at this time in 1964 that really marks the end of the Gilbert Clock Co and the antique Gilbert Clocks that were so well received at the time.
Happy Collecting!
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