Bradley
Woodworks was incorporated in 1978 shortly after most major railroads stopped
using mechanical clocks. Many railroads auctioned off their wall
clocks or sold them to employees. Many more were stolen from depots
or "borrowed" by station agents for use in their own homes. Believe it
or not, many were also thrown out or destroyed. Many of my customers
have told stories of 'saving" a clock from the garbage bin. Within a very
short period of time it seems, you could not find one of these clocks anywhere.
The desire to own one
was reinforced each day for railroad employees when they compared their
pocket watches to the electronic clock on the wall that hung in its place.
While each employee at least had their pocket watches to remind them of
the "good old days" there was only one clock per station and it was gone.
This desire to own
an old station clock created a market opportunity for Bradley Woodworks.
We acquired original drawings for the clocks and their hardware and set
out to produce them as they were produced originally. We started with the
World model, then the Standard, and finally the No.2 Regulator. Our market
is primarily railroads and their employees, both active and retired. Many
people buy our clocks for their living rooms, dens and offices. These clocks
engage all of the senses. They sound very soothing with their rhythmic
tick-tock. They have the smell of good wood and quality, oiled hardware.
They are a delight to sit and look at, and finally it is pleasing to touch
the smooth finish and perfect joints. I know I have only mentioned
4 of the 5 senses but I have not yet heard of a customer "tasting", their
clock!)
We intend to continue
building and servicing these clocks for decades to come. The continuity
of service is guaranteed by my son David, who is extremely capable and
only 21 years of age. Together we look forward to serving you.
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