Montreal-based Fleet Time Company unveils their latest product, the Westminster Chime Mantel Clock.
A Closer Look at the Fleet Time Company of Montreal and Its Clocks
The Canadian Clock Museum in Deep River, Ontario, houses a fascinating piece of history from the Fleet Time Company of Montreal. Established between 1936 and 1940, this company played a significant role in the Canadian clock industry during the pre-war and early war years.
The company's two locations were 440 McGill and later 303 St. Paul West, Montreal, Canada. It was listed as an importer of clocks and watches, with a focus on two and three-train mantel clocks. Notably, the movements of these clocks were sourced from Germany, a decision that was likely influenced by the geopolitical climate of the time.
During World War II, trade with Axis-controlled territories was heavily restricted or impossible for Canadian companies due to Allied embargoes and wartime blockades. Canada, aligned with the Allies, would prioritize sourcing from friendly or neutral countries. Germany and occupied France would be inaccessible or unreliable for sourcing critical components like clock movements.
The Fleet Time Company's decision to stick with German suppliers could also be attributed to differences in company strategy or contacts, or perhaps a more conservative approach compared to other companies like the Forestville Clock Co. in Toronto, which may have managed to source movements in ways that exploited available neutral or Allied suppliers.
Another factor could be the transportation and logistics challenges during the war. Shipping routes from Europe (especially enemy or occupied countries) to Canadian ports were disrupted or unsafe due to the war.
The clock in question is a Westminster chime mantel clock, another addition to the owner's Canadian clock collection. While refinishing the case of a Fleet Time Co. clock, two surprises were discovered. Wood cases for some models were made in Canada, while other cabinets were imported from Germany.
The clock in question has a Gufa movement, which is the Guetenbacher Uhrenfabrik located in Gütenbach, Germany. The movement of the clock does not work because the time side mainspring is broken. Despite this, the clock remains an intriguing piece of Canadian clock history.
In 2020, a clock from the Fleet Time Co. was purchased by an antique clock collector, further preserving a piece of this company's history. The clock was sold at department stores across Canada, making it accessible to many Canadians.
The Second World War had a significant impact on the company as the source of movements dried up. Despite this, the Fleet Time Company of Montreal left an indelible mark on the Canadian clock industry, offering a glimpse into the country's industrial past.
