Gilbert Clocks

The Gilbert Clock Company went through many changes from its beginnings in Winsted, Connecticut in 1871. Clocks were made in a factory and were known for their interesting cases and movement features. It was one of the few firms allowed to continue production during World War II because they were able to make clocks without metal cases; they used molded paper-mache.

When the William L. Gilbert Clock Company formed in in Winsted, CT in 1871 it was as a successor to the Gilbert Manufacturing company which had ceased when fire destroyed its factory. Both firms were offshoots of the operations of William L. Gilbert who had had a long career as a clock maker throughout Connecticut.

Gilbert Clock completed a new factory in 1873 and quickly began manufacture. For 50 years George B. Owen oversaw the company as General manager and helped usher in numerous unique case styles and patented clock movements. Owen also ran a side business of clock making at the same time.

1897 saw the completion of a 4 story display and case shop and 3 years later another building was built for storage. The 1907 recession hurt the company and its profits began to decline eventually ending in George B. Owen giving up control of the company and turning it over to his sons in 1914.

In 1914 the company brought in a new manager named Charles E. Williams and he served until his 1930 death just months after the stock market crash. The firm ended up in receivership by September 1932.