MasterCrafters Clocks

MasterCrafters Clock and Radio Company was a Chicago-based manufacturer known for producing electric clocks with novelty and decorative features from the 1940s through the 1970s.

The company gained recognition for their mid-century novelty clocks, especially those featuring mechanical animations such as flickering fireplaces, cascading waterfalls, or swinging birds, powered by quiet Telechron motors. These clocks often served as decorative centerpieces in American homes, combining practicality with visual storytelling.

MasterCrafters's chief designer and electrical engineer, John Hancock, created many of its most iconic models, including the Fireplace (#272) and Waterfall (#344) clocks.

Sold through catalogs and department stores, these clocks were marketed to the post-war American middle class. The company began to decline as battery-operated and digital clocks became more popular. Today, MasterCrafters clocks are highly collectible, especially working models with all animation elements intact.

Vintage MasterCrafters Ad

MasterCrafters Fireplace Clock MasterCrafters Fireplace Clock
Quick View
MasterCrafters Fireplace Clock

The Fireplace model #272 became one of the most iconic and enduring designs produced by MasterCrafters. Its simulated fireplace casts a cozy, flickering glow that was especially popular in homes throughout the 1950s and 60s.

The plastic clock housing has a walnut woodgrain finish and is shaped to resemble a detailed mantel. Logs sit before a brick-patterned backdrop, accented by gold-tone andirons and matching ornate grate with floral scrollwork. A clear Lucite panel covers the clock face above.

The glowing fire illusion uses a lighted rotating drum to create a dancing flame effect behind the 3D fireplace scene. This innovative light-motion mechanism was developed by MasterCrafters’ chief designer, John Hancock. This model operates on a quiet electric motor and plugs into a standard wall outlet, with a sweep second hand to ensure accurate timekeeping.

This timepiece captures the nostalgic ambiance of a mid-century American living room. Its detailed design and timeless appeal make it a favorite among collectors and a charming decorative piece that brings warmth and character to any space.

The Fireplace was made with several different types of clock movements over the years.

MasterCrafters Fireplace (fireplace lit).jpg
MasterCrafters Fireplace (clock face).jpg
MasterCrafters Fireplace (right).jpg
MasterCrafters Fireplace (left).jpg
MasterCrafters Fireplace (fireplace top view).jpg
Realistic flames dance and flicker. Case of beautiful walnut plastic. Gold-finish dial, easy to read. Electric.
MasterCrafters Waterfall Clock MasterCrafters Waterfall Clock
Quick View
MasterCrafters Waterfall Clock

The Waterfall model #344, introduced in the 1950s, showcases a scenic waterfall framed by pine trees beneath the clock face. The design creates a charming, tranquil effect that adds character to any room and was inspired by a Hamm’s beer display featuring a similar waterfall.

The illusion is created by light reflected on a rotating drum, which mimics the motion of cascading water. A soft backlight enhances the waterfall effect and provides a warm, ambient glow.

The clock face is set behind a clear Lucite panel framed in brass-tone trim, with easy-to-read numbers and classic styling. The housing is made primarily of Tenite plastic and has a brushed brass-like appearance. Powered by a quiet electric motor, it plugs into a standard wall outlet and features a sweep second hand for smooth, continuous timekeeping.

A fine example of American mid-century design, this clock is one of the most innovative animated models produced by MasterCrafters. It reflects the company’s unique approach to combining art with mechanics to bring everyday scenes to life. Both visually striking and highly collectible, it makes a standout decorative accent for any mantel, shelf, or side table.

Previous

Children's Books
Next

Glass