You will notice that all Chelsea Timemaster model clocks (military/commercial clocks) are, or will be unavailable for purchase. This is due to Chelsea Clock discontinuing all Timemaster models without notice effective mid-December.
BellClocks has contacted Chelsea's National Sales Director and lodged a complaint that this is a poor business and customer service decision on the part of Chelsea Clock. Unfortunately, given Chelsea's current path of business, we hold little hope of seeing these clocks return.
We note that Chelsea has retained 2 models which are now called the "Patriot" deck clock which are strikingly similar to Timemaster 40099 and 40010 radio room models. We inquired about these models and were told that these will not be made available to dealers - rather, will be sold directly by Chelsea to the public.
One note on the "Patriot" models:
BellClocks was told that these are the same clock as Timemaster - however, Chelsea has refused to answer our 2 primary questions: (1) is the "Patriot" rated to MILSPEC as Timemaster was (2) Does it contain the same U S movement as before?
The refusal on Chelseas part to answer these questions leads us (me) to believe that the "Patriot" likely contains a different (perhaps asian or similar) movement, and that it is NOT MILSPEC rated.
You might be thinking that we (Windward Instruments companies) are just disgruntled regarding this development. While that is an accurate description, it is NOT the reason we take the time to post this information.
Over the past 3 years, at the direction of Anthony LaChapelle and J K Nicolas, Chelsea has treated it's customers (both dealers, and retail customers) with disrepect and disregard. Chelsea has been actively sourcing in Asia for some time for movements and other parts.
At this point Chelsea is doing away with (in our opinion) one of it's traditional lines which has helped define Chelsea throughout it's history.
It's not being disgruntled - so much as both terribly disappointed, and very concerned.
Thank you for your attention.
Best,
Mike Ratican
Business Director
Windward Instruments
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