Talking Clock, c. 1910
Gustav Becker
Freiberg, Germany
There has been an interest in timepieces that verbally announce the time for a number of years. One of the earliest known patents for one was issued to Joseph A. Vincent in 1898 for a gramophone clock. To date, we have not located the patent or patents that apply to the Becker clock. Examples of the clock with their original tape are extremely rare. only half a dozen known to still exist have the tape. This example, in addition to lacking the tape, is also missing the pickup diaphragm.
Donated by Warner D. Bundens, Jr., NAWCC #1177
80.86.6
Talking Clock, c. 1918
Unknown
Germany
Not only does this clock state the time on the dial, but it announces it on the hour and half hour. A voice recording on a celluloid strip plays the time through a small recorder in the clock. One can also request the time to the nearest quarter hour by pressing a button on the top of the clock. The clock was purchased in 1918 from the Strawbridge and Clothier Department Store and later returned and forgotten. Working in the clock department of the store, Mr. Vincent Urbanek found and purchased the piece in 1922. Later his son donated the clock to the museum.
Donated in memory of Vincent Urbanek by Benjamin J. Novac, NAWCC #13438 and family.
1990.46