Greater Massachusetts Chapter 87 NAWCC

John Wetherell, President

 

 

Meetings Past (2006 - 2009)

May 17, 2009
Peabody Holiday Inn

Highlights by Richard D Pompeo Jr.

Greater Massachusetts Ch.87 held its most recent meet on May 17, 2009.    

President John Wetherell presided over the council meeting. Topics covered were various housekeeping issues regarding meets, final notes on our picnic agenda, distrobution of chapter handbook from national, upcoming meets and schedule of topics for presenters.

Members entered into the mart promptly at 8:30 AM.

Tables were filled with the usual stock of clocks, watches, parts and other related items that folks are becoming accustomed to finding at the mart. As always, Bill Weaver conducted our 50/50 raffle and silent auction both of which were well received.  Ch. 87 conducts a very successful silent auction which not only helps us raise a few dollars but allows members who may not want to rent a table the opportunity to bring an item or two and sell them for a competitive bid. 

The Ch. 87 council encourages all members to take advantage of these features.  

Remember: Ch 87 encourages current members to ask a friend who may be a member of another chapter to come along as a guest to a meet.  Many of us are members of more than one chapter and know the benefits of being exposed to different programs and areas of interest that each chapter promotes.

Chapter 87 also encourages any members who have a particular interest or area of expertise pertaining to watches and clocks, to please consider participating in our “Talk in the Corner of the Room” series.

These occur at each meet and are always very informative and fun.  Speakers usually discuss their topic, field questions and display items or information relevant to topic.  These talks are meant to be informal gatherings for the exchange of information and ideas pertaining to our trade.

The Subject for May 17, 2009 "Talk in the Corner of the Room" was "Dollar Watches".  Conducted by Bill Weaver Sr.

Bill shared his  knowledge of the history and development of the dollar watch industry.  He also brought many examples for viewing, from the first dollar watch to some of the very latest. Including some of the various configurations they were also sold in, such as: Car Clocks, Travel Clocks, and Pendants etc.

This was a great opportunity to examine first hand many models that one seldom sees and to get some helpful repair tips from an expert in the field.  

Some notable watches Bill brought were a Mint 1982 Worlds Fair " Tennessee " by Westclox , a spectacular Ingraham "Admiral Byrd", and one of the first Ingersoll dollar watches ever made.

 Bill explained that Mr. Ingersoll’s goal was to sell quality at an inexpensive price by utilizing mass production. He started by commissioning Waterbury to make the movements. Starting with a 1000 piece order he then assembled the watches at his factory. It was his vision to create the Dollar Watch, as we know now, it worked. In their lifetime Ingersoll produced some 64 million dollar watches. We were fortunate Bill brought along one of these rare watches for us to examine.

Bill has been collecting and repairing fine time pieces for many years and we appreciate him sharing his collection and expertise with our members.

Upcoming talks to include “My favorite Novelty Clocks” with Speaker John Fitzwilliam

   

*   *   *

March 15, 2009
Peabody Holiday Inn

Highlights by Richard D Pompeo Jr.

Greater Massachusetts Ch.87 held its most recent meet on March, 15, 2009. Attendance was very strong and enthusiastic at the Holiday Inn at Peabody Mass.

John Wetherell presided over the council meeting: topics covered were the state of membership, upcoming meets and consideration of our summer picnic, which was voted on and approved for July 19th at Governor's Academy, budgetary items, discussion of new Bulletin board and resource file for the use of our members, etc.

85 Members entered into the mart promptly at 8:30 AM. With 37 tables stocked with a huge array of clocks, watches, parts and other related items available for trade. As always, Bill Weaver conducted our 50/50 raffle and silent auction both of which were well received. Ch. 87 conducts a very successful silent auction which not only helps us raise a few dollars but allows members who may not want to rent a table the opportunity to bring an item or two and sell them for a competitive bid. The Ch. 87 council encourages all members to take advantage of these features.

We had one new member in attendance and it was a very active mart.

Remember: Ch 87 encourages current members to ask a friend who may be a member of another chapter to come along as a guest to a meet. Many of us are members of more than one chapter and know the benefits of being exposed to different programs and areas of interest that each chapter promotes.

We also encourage all current members who may not have attended in a while, to please join us July 19, 2009 at the Governor’s Academy in Byfield Mass, for our summer picnic. Get reacquainted with old friends, meet our new members and enjoy complimentary Coffee, Sodas and Snacks.

Chapter 87 also encourages any members who have a particular interest or area of expertise pertaining to watches and clocks, to please consider participating in our "Talk in the Corner of the Room" series.

These occur at each meet and are always very informative and fun. Speakers usually discuss their topic, field questions and display items or information relevant to topic. These talks are meant to be informal gatherings for the exchange of information and ideas pertaining to our trade and they work.

If you have knowledge about anything, however common you may think it is, others may find it very helpful and interesting, so please come share it with us. Please contact us and let us know what you have in mind. We can help you and get you in one of our upcoming meets as well as announce you and your topic in our newsletter.

The Subject for March 15, 2009 "Talk in the Corner of the Room" was "Dealing with general public". Held by Chris Carey.

Chris shared his experiences dealing with various customer segments. He discussed the overall perception many people have of a watch and clock repair person and how little they really understand of what is involved. He explained his method of educating customers in the process he undertakes when repairing their items. Chris deals with many types of customers: institutional, fellow repairmen, private collectors as well as the general public. He spoke a bit on each and how he likes to handle different situations that arise with each. This turned out to be a very popular talk; attendees found this information very helpful and during the open discussion portion many attendees had stories and thoughts to share on the subject. Chris has been running Watertown Watch and Clock Repair for about 15 years now. He deals with this subject on a day to day basis and we thank him for sharing his knowledge.

Upcoming talks to include "My favorite Novelty Clocks" with speaker John Fitzwilliam.

*   *   *

January 18, 2009
Peabody Holiday Inn

Highlights by Richard D Pompeo Jr.

Despite a mini blizzard and tough traveling conditions attendance was strong for the first meet of 2009.

Greater Massachusetts Ch.87 held its first meet of the year on Jan. 18, 2009. As snow belted the area members made the journey out to the Holiday Inn at Peabody Mass.

John Wetherell presided over the council meeting; the focus was on last year's progress and discussion of the plans for this year and beyond.

With this done and everyone registered, members entered into the mart promptly at 8:30 AM. As always, a well rounded sampling of clocks, watches, parts and other related items were available for trade. As always, Bill Weaver conducted our 50/50 raffle and silent auction both of which were well received.

Our Council is always happy to hear from folks who may be interested in joining our chapter. We encourage current members to ask a friend who may who may be a member of another chapter to come along as a guest to a meet. Many of us are members of more than one chapter and know the benefits of being exposed to different programs and areas of interest that each chapter promotes. We also encourage all current members who may not have attended in a while, to please join us March 15, 2009 in Peabody, for our spring meet. Get reacquainted with old friends and meet our new members.

Remember: Ch. 87 conducts a very successful silent auction which not only helps us raise a few dollars but allows members who may not want to rent a table the opportunity to bring an item or two and sell them for a competitive bid. The Ch. 87 council encourages all members to take advantage of this feature.

Chapter 87 also encourages any members who have a particular interest or area of expertise pertaining to watches and clocks, to please consider participating in our “Talk in the Corner of the Room” series.

These occur at each meet. They are always very informative and fun. Speakers usually discuss their topic, field questions and display items or information relevant to topic. These talks are meant to be informal gatherings for the exchange of information and ideas pertaining to our trade and they work.

If you have knowledge about anything, however common you may think it is, others may find it very helpful and interesting, so please come share it with us. Please contact us and let us know what you have in mind, we can help you and get you in one of our upcoming meets as well as announce you and your topic in our newsletter.

The Subject for January 18, 2008 “Talk in The Corner of the Room” was “Current valuation of military timepieces”. Held by Alex Bucell

Alex brought many of his American and Foreign Military timepieces to be viewed. He explained various methods of research and grading when attempting to place a value on an item in the current market. Members where able to ask questions about researching items they had or were purchasing. It was very informative and we plan to have more of these.

Alex brought several items along for display, every thing form hand held chronographs to bomb timers. Many Thanks to Alex for sharing his knowledge with us.

*   *   *

November 16, 2008
Peabody Holiday Inn

Highlights by Richard D Pompeo Jr.

November Meeting; Greater Massachusetts Ch.87 held its final meet of the year on Nov 16, 2008.  Over 90 members, several from Connecticut , Rhode Island and New Hampshire made the journey out to the Holiday Inn at Peabody Mass.

John Wetherell made sure all the tables were up and ready and conducted an efficient but wide encompassing counsel meeting which included a report by Treasurer Ken Hawkins.

This was all done in time to have folks registered and entered into the mart at 8:30 AM!   The mart was busy for this time of year, with 34 tables being enlisted.  Many clocks, watches, parts and other related items were available for trade.  As always, Bill Weaver conducted our 50/50 raffle and silent auction both of which were well received.

President John Wetherell spoke to the membership about our counsel meeting and our decision to refrain from ordering Danish for the next meet. There was no objection, however, coffee as always, will be in plentiful supply.

John also asked members to remember Charlie Deacon who recently passed away.  Mr. Deacon, John noted, was instrumental in making our chapter a better one.  He always was  creating interest for Ch. 87 and promoting horology  as a whole.  Charlie and his enthusiasm for the chapter will be greatly missed.  John also took this time to welcome some new members. They appeared pleased with the meet,  as were we pleased, to see new faces.

Our Council is always happy to hear from folks who may be interested in joining our chapter.  We encourage current members to ask a friend who may show interest in the hobby of clocks and watches to come along as a guest to a meet.   We also encourage all current members who may not have attended in a while, to please join us in Peabody January 18 or March 15, 2009, for our spring meet.  Get reacquainted with old friends and meet our new members.

Remember:  Ch. 87 conducts a very successful silent auction which not only helps us raise a few dollars but allows members who may not want to rent a table the opportunity to bring an item or two and sell them for a competitive bid.  The Ch. 87 council encourages all members to take advantage of this feature.

Chapter 87 also encourages any members who have a particular interest or area of expertise pertaining to watches and clocks, to please consider participating in our “Talk in the Corner of the Room” series.

These occur at each meet.  They are always very informative and fun.  Speakers usually discuss their topic, field questions and display items or information relevant to topic.  These talks are meant to be informal gatherings for the exchange of information and ideas pertaining to our trade and they work.

If you have knowledge about anything, however common you may think it is, others may find it very helpful and interesting, so please come share it with us. Please contact us and let us know what you have in mind, we can help you and get you in one of our upcoming meets as well as announce you and your topic in our newsletter.

The Subject for November 16, 2008 “Talk in The Corner of the Room” was “American & Foreign Timepiece Industries of WW1 and 2   given by Past Pres. Dan Haff.

Dan brought many of his American and Foreign Military timepieces to be viewed. He shared vast knowledge of the industries and their production from this era.

Some products shown were fine examples of wristwatches & timepieces from:

  • Hamilton , Elgin , Waltham , and Bulova.   
  • Walter Storz of Pforzheim (German) --"Stowa" pilot's watch. 
  • Hamilton Mod 21 Chronometer (internally wired), and navigation watch 4992B. 
  • A bomb/mine timer by Ansonia Clock.   
  • Shell timer and WW1 dashboard clock by Chelsea Clock. 
  • WW1 British Admiralty "Mark 5" Dashboard pocket watch for the R.F.C, predecessor of the R.A.F. 
  • Smiths W10 wristwatch with broad arrow---the last of the English made watches.

He discussed the importance of their development, use, and  impact during the world wars. 

* * * * *

Sept. 21, 2008
Sheraton Colonial Wakefield Inn


 Dan Haff, President, "reluctantly" announcing the new year officer elections.
 
John Wetherell "reluctantly" accepting the new year Presidency,

Jon Weber in our "meeting in the corner of the room" program shared his thoughts on new ways to look at watches; i.e., ranking them according to styles and accuracy; by the "feeding grade". Jon's presentations are always very informative and entertaining. {Jon's knowledge is absolutely amazing. Don't pass up any of his presentations -- the photographer.)

* * * * *

May 18, 2008
Peabody Holiday Inn

Past President John Wetherell lead our "meeting in the corner of the room" program with a discussion of things to consider when evaluating a watch. John shared his extensive knowledge and long experience to share tips for making decisions related to condition, collectability, and value.

* * * * *

March 16, 2008
Peabody Holiday Inn

  Our "Talk In The Corner of The Room" speaker was Arek Baizerman. He told us about his experiences as a student at the Swiss Watch School (Wostep). Arek recently completed the intensive 5 month, 7 day a week program. Arek gave a most interesting presentation.

* * * * *

January 20, 2008
Peabody Holiday Inn
 

President Dan Haff trying to get the attention of the mart goers.

* * * * *

 
November 11, 2007
Peabody Holiday Inn

Woorkshop

Bob Howatt

"Old Books"

* * * * *

March 18, 2007
Peabody Holiday Inn
 

Presenter Jon-Weber "Contemporary Topics From the World of Time" or Time and Location via satellites.

* * * * *

January 21, 2007
Peabody Holiday Inn

Richard Pompeo Dan Haff
Richard Pompeo giving his presentation on auctions. Richard had several local antique artifacts on display.
President Dan Haff making morning's announcements.

Meeting Highlights by Arek R. Baizerman

Chapter 87 members awoke early and made their way to historic Peabody for the "Year-Opener" Meeting and Mart on Sunday, January 21, 2007 at the Peabody Holiday Inn. Members from all around came in abundance to spend their bitterly cold Sunday morning with their Chapter for the 8:15 door opening. The many new faces were mingling and making deals with the longtime members at the Mart tables.

The Chapter 87 Council has extended invitations to many in recent months, and has been pleased with the support we have received.  In all, 90 members hovered over tables for about 2-1/2 hours. There was plenty of dealing and conversation throughout the morning.               

The Mart was steady through the 11:00 AM Door Prize awarded to Mark Kozinskis for being the last table-holder fully set-up.  Please remember to bring something to the next meeting for the silent auction table. The Mart Tables continue to sell well, but we can accept several more reservations for those on the fence about buying a table for the upcoming meeting.

During the meeting member Dick Pompeo of Quincy , MA gave a presentation titled "Adventures in Auctioning of Antique Clocks."  Dick has been auctioning antiques and old clocks and watches in particular, for many years.  It was a well given and well received presentation with many members stopping their trading to hear his insight. Remember, we always welcome suggestions for guest speakers at upcoming meetings. If you have an idea for a speaker or would enjoy presenting yourself, please contact a Council Member.

Chapter 87's Council President Dan Haff held a vote of members around 9:30 AM to gauge support for a Multi-Chapter Meeting to bring together several of the New England Chapters of NAWCC. There was a unanimous show of hands from members in favor of the idea. I guess that means the Council will be hard at work as you read this to make tentative plans concerning possible dates and locations, and hopes to unveil them at the upcoming 2007 Meetings.

Most of our members can attest to the notion that Horology is a bug that spreads rapidly, so expose a friend or colleague to your sickness by inviting them to a Meeting.  The Council reminds it's members to invite them to check out a meeting as your guest. Existing Members - try your hand at a table. It is an exciting way to participate and a great way to socialize.  Help keep membership strong by word of mouth!

* * * * *

November 12, 2006
Peabody Holiday Inn

Meeting Highlights by Arek R. Baizerman

Members of all ages came in great numbers to spend their cold and rainy Sunday morning with their Chapter for the 8:45 door opening. Many new faces accompanied the longtime members buying and selling at the Mart tables. The Chapter 87 Council has directed a great deal of effort to extend invitations to past members and non-members living in the area, and the brotherly-attitude has helped the Meetings and Marts.  Members carried, rolled, and dragged goods for the Mart tables early and made a strong start. In all, 90 members hovered over tables for about 2-1/2 hours. There was plenty of dealing and conversation throughout the morning.     

The Mart was steady through the 11:00 AM  Door Prize, awarded to one lucky member for being the last tableholder fully set-up. Members voted to approve John Fitzwilliam  to the post of  2nd V.P. on the Ch 87 Council. His election filled the last open seat from the September 2006 Meeting.  The Silent Auction tables begun last year have continued with some success. Please remember to bring something to the next meeting for the auction table.

Chapter 87's Council President Dan Haff hopes everyone had a great Holiday , and hopes to see them at the upcoming 2007 Meetings.

Initial review of write-in comments from ballots cast in September ranks email contact the No.1 request of members. Many members have email access and agree it is easier than calling each member for reminding them of upcoming meetings, and more economical than printing extra mailers. Please include an email address when sending in your registration if you wish to be emailed about future meetings once we begin group emails. Unconnected members fear not- we will continue to mail out our registration form.

As a final note, The Council encourages members to bring a friend to one of our upcoming meetings. Share your interest in horology with someone you know by inviting them to check out a meeting as your guest.

* * * * *

September 17, 2006
Peabody Holiday Inn

Meeting Highlights by Arek R. Baizerman

Chapter 87 members awoke early and made their way to Boston's metro-north for our Annual Meeting and Mart on Sunday, September 17, 2006, at the Peabody Holiday Inn. The crisp fall morning drew members of all ages for the 8:45 door opening. The hordes arrived with plenty of fresh merchandise for the Mart. Turnout continued to exceed the Chapter 87 Council's expectations by being significantly higher than years past. In fact, turnout has been higher for the entire year-to-date. Everyone seemed pleased by the record turnout for our annual meeting. Clocks, Watches, Books, and Tools filled Mart tables early and made for many good deals. 104 members made good use of their Sunday morning with us. Coffee and Pastry greeted guests, and tea was added by popular demand.

The action in the Mart stayed strong through the 11:00AM  Door Prize, awarded to member Alex Bucell for being the last tableholder fully set-up. Members' ballots were cast and counted for the Ch 87 Council; luckily without any worries over hanging-chads.  The Silent Auction tables begun last year continue to be well received by members. Remember- any member can bring items for the silent auction.

Chapter 87's Annual Meeting was brought to order by President John Wetherell with the "State of the Chapter" address, outlining our strong membership and financial status. John then introduced the new slate of officers for 2006-08, with all current members returning to continue building our chapter, headed by incoming Council President Dan Haff. The revised chapter bylaws were also approved.  Ballots also included area for suggestions and constructive criticism, and many contained good feedback which we are now reviewing.

We all owe a great debt to our outgoing President for his efforts in building bridges within our area and for leading the chapter to record growth while many chapters throughout the country are struggling to retain their groups' numbers. Mr. Wetherell will now assist the Council in his post as past-president.

The Council encourages any NAWCC members to join us for one of our upcoming meetings. Our chapters' recent success proves when there are more attendees, the morning is more enjoyable for everyone involved.  Check our website for info and pictures from Meetings past. Remember, your support is essential to Chapter 87, so please let us know if you would like to see a multi-chapter meeting in the future.

* * * * *

January 15, 2006
Peabody Holiday Inn

Despite the freezing snowy weather, the mart tables were well occupied. View from down the line from Ron Price's end table. First in view are Bob Howatt (back side) trying to sell a "treasure" to Art Fitzgerald.
Dan Haff gave a very interesting presentation on military timepieces.
(photo by Jon Weber)

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