Canadian Corporation Specializing in Clock Production
In the mid-20th century, the Snider Clock Manufacturing Company Limited was a notable Canadian company that made its mark in the clock industry. Known for its innovation, quirkiness, and fanciful designs, the company operated as a family venture until it ceased production in 1976.
The company was founded by Harry Snider in 1950, initially producing mantel clocks with mechanical versions supplied by Ingraham. In 1957, the Snider Clock Corporation transformed into the Snider Clock Manufacturing Company Limited. During this period, the company shifted to producing mantel clocks with electric motors imported from the Lanshire company in Chicago.
Seven years after the Arthur Pequegnat Clock Company, a well-known Canadian clock manufacturer, ceased operations in 1941, the Snider Clock company found itself amidst a bustling Canadian clock market, particularly in areas around Toronto. In response to the growing interest in space adventure and the dawn of the "Atomic age", the company made a strategic shift in 1960, focusing on the production of wall clocks.
One of the most iconic designs of the Snider Clock company was the starburst clock, which was the longest running style of clock produced by the company. These clocks, with their intricate starburst and molecular patterned designs, were particularly popular during this time. The company also offered an upgrade to electromechanical models with battery movements, allowing for flexible placement of the clocks anywhere in the home.
Despite the company's unique and stylish clock designs, detailed historical data, founding dates, key figures, or market impact specifics for the Snider Clock Manufacturing Company Limited are scarce in publicly available sources. For those seeking more detailed and authoritative information about the company’s history and market impact, it is recommended to consult Canadian business archives, horological society publications, or vintage clock collector resources that focus on Canadian manufacturers.
Today, the Canadian Clock Museum, located in Deep River, Ontario, serves as a testament to the company's legacy. The museum focuses on Canadian clocks or clocks with a Canadian connection, showcasing objects of lasting interest or historic value related to clocks. A Snider Starburst clock was even discovered in a boutique hotel in downtown Quebec City during a summer travel in 2016.
For clock fans and museum lovers, the Canadian Clock Museum is a must-see, offering a fascinating glimpse into the history of Canadian clock manufacturing and the unique designs that came from companies like the Snider Clock Manufacturing Company Limited.
In the shift of production focus in 1960, the Snider Clock Manufacturing Company Limited started producing wall clocks, adding to their vintage clocks and mantel clocks. Fashion-and-beauty enthusiasts and home-and-garden aficionados might appreciate the starburst clocks, a signature design of the Snider Clock Manufacturing Company Limited, which embody the company's innovative and quirky lifestyle aesthetic. With the Canadian Clock Museum in Deep River, Ontario showcasing objects related to clock manufacturing, including a Snider Starburst clock discovered in a boutique hotel, it serves as a testament to the company's historic contributions to the industry.
