Remember the vintage Timex commercial adage “It takes a licking and keeps on ticking”?

The same can be said of 90-year-old clock repairman/maker Richard Storer, who lives in Hampton with his daughter. Like the 1960s commercial, this experienced repairman/maker “keeps on ticking” by servicing hundreds of clocks and watches with meticulous care. Once owning and operating a small shop in Jonesboro, Storer now does his handiwork in his home’s upstairs attic.

Storer grew up in Kansas and served in the Navy from 1952 until 1974. While stationed at the Naval Air Station in New Orleans, he became interested in clocks through a friend who was also stationed with him and who collected clocks. Later, while stationed in California working on jet engines and ejection seats, he saw a magazine advertisement for a watch repair course. Through this correspondence course, Storer was taught how to repair watches.

Through the last 60 years, this experienced clockmaker has lost count of just how many clocks he has made and has recently begun numbering them; he is presently working on number 37. Number 36 can be seen in Gray’s Jewelers and Optical Workshop near the McDonough town square, and it is an excellent display of Storer’s talent in making clock cases. Besides working and servicing local customers’ and relatives’ clocks, he has also built cases for them.  

Storer states that older clocks are better constructed, need less repair, and last much longer than clocks that are currently built. For those needing repair, however, he is quite adept at making unavailable parts for these old clocks. In his shop, various machines and tools are used to make these old clock parts. The oldest clock he has cleaned and oiled was built in 1737.  

There is a distinction between clocks – those with no chime or strike are called timepieces; those that chime and strike are called clocks. Clocks that are weight-driven are more accurate than spring-driven models.

He believes the American-made pocket watches are a work of art and were the best made. These timepieces were worn mainly by the railroad workers for precise timekeeping. However, with the introduction of the wristwatch in the years leading up to World War I, pocket watch usage waned. 

Eager to pass along his knowledge of this unique and needed clock repair/making business to others, Storer meets with a group of men who desire to be clock makers as well. Every Wednesday, this small assembly meets at Storer’s residence to discuss problems dealing with old clocks. Others with similar interests meet on the last Thursday of every month in Fayetteville.

Storer’s love for one of the oldest mechanical devices is evident throughout his home. Seven of the time pieces are proudly displayed. Four were crafted by this master, which exhibits his love for making and repairing these treasured pieces. 

Few expert clock technicians diligently and carefully apply their knowledge and love to this special repair art. Such qualities are found in Storer. The community is indeed fortunate to have such a clock and watch repairman. It is hoped that this master clock repairman will keep on ticking for quite a while longer!

By Arolue Flemmen Prater