Westclox: "Wind-up" (Paperback)

Over 790 images display hundreds of Westclox*r "wind-up" clocks and watches produced between 1885 and 1970. An extensive history of the company and its employees is told through photographs, poems, letters, and anecdotes drawn from the Westclox magazine-Tick Talk. Westclox' pioneering marketing efforts are discussed, including its move into radio advertising with the Big Ben "Dream Dramas." The informative text also includes data on major innovations in spring clocks and watches, identifying both patents and inventors. Included are George Kern's original patents for "Big Ben." Westclox spring clocks and watches spanned many design eras, including Victorian, Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and Mid-Century Modern. In addition to Henry Dreyfuss' well-known redesigns of Big Ben during the 1930s and 1940s, the designers of dozens of other clocks are identified. Among the designers discussed are Joseph Steinmeier, Max Schlenker, Ellworth Danz, and Roman Szalek. Endnotes, a bibliography, and indices are included, along with current market values in the captions. Clock collectors, designers, and historians will find this book fascinating. Endnotes, a bibliography, and index are included, along with current market values in the captions. Clock collectors, designers, and historians will find this book fascinating.