New Sign -

[Sodak Bob]

This is a little off topic but I picked up this sign at an auction (ouch $$) It has CWT Co. (Chicago Watch and Tool Company) and the word Modern on it.  Very heavy -made of cast.  It used to light up with two bulbs behind the curved painted glass, but the wiring is very old.  I haven't had much luck finding any info... Any help???  Why the time of 8:17 and what year.  I was told it hung on mainstreet in a small town here in South Dakota

[Jacko1070]

As for the 8:17.............If memory serves it was an advertising "trick" used by watch companies to splay the hand out as far as possible to show most of the decorated face of a clock.  10:10 was another popular time to use as it looked as if the clock were functioning, rather than straight across like 9:15.   Old wives tale used to also state that it was in honor of fallen Presidents.   Rumor was that was the time that both Kennedy and Lincoln were pronounced dead, although this has since been debunked..................

[Sodak Bob]

Thanks -   good info...  I am asking around on another site about the CWT co. but no luck as of yet.

[Sodak Bob]

Well I got the sign to light up... Neat piece but I have gained little info as of yet... The search continues.

[johnieG]

Nice & at least it's correct twice a day!