Chapter 24 held its December 5, 2004, meeting at the Mountain Park Aquatic Center. The business meeting was held first, then the holiday party was enjoyed.
After the mart had gotten under way, our resident comedian/auctioneer, Brooks Coleman, dispatched about a dozen clocks in short order. Apparently, the order was too short, as a supplemental auction had to be held a little later on, to accommodate an additional item.
There was one outstanding clock at the meeting, brought for display by Joe Marcus. It was a J.C. Brown Ripple front case, all original, in mint condition. This left the clock enthusiasts green with envy. Too bad it wasn't for sale, but then the good ones never are.
President Bernie Tekippe called the meeting to order for his last time and welcomed many new members and guests. Following the committee reports, discussion turned to a clock that the chapter is working on for the A. H. Stevens State Park. The clock needs a new reverse painted glass and a dial restoration. The chapter approved the funds to have the work done. Member Rick Mangum will paint the glass as he's our resident expert and does a beautiful job. Another chapter member, nationally-known and respected, Kathi Edwards will restore the dial.
Carol Tekippe, co-chairman for the 2005 Mid-South Regional in Chattanooga, reported that the contract for the convention center was signed. After the first of the year, the ball will be rolling and members are urged to please think VOLUNTEER.
Elections were held for new officers for Chapter 24. Jeff Jacobus will be president, Mike Mellard will be vice president, Bob Booth remains as treasurer, and Donna Kalinkiewicz is secretary. Thanks to these fine folks for stepping up to the plate for the Chapter.
The Watch Focus Group displayed 18-size Swiss watches. The word went out to hold the "Swiss Fakes" for another time, resulting in a turnout of higher grade examples. Hans Rupf brought an earlier, adjusted, Longines watch bearing serial number 553,878. It was fitted with at least 16 jewels, probably 20, but the watch hadn't been taken down to count. It was one of the few we've seen of this high quality having a serial number below 1,000,000. A 23-jewel Zenith "Extra" grade watch, serial number 1,644,883, was shown by Kent Singer. 18-size (and 16-size) Zenith watches of this quality were almost always made specifically for North American railroad time service and are rarely seen. The topic for February will follow the theme with 16-size higher grade Swiss watches being displayed.
The meeting was adjourned and we feasted on the goodies brought by all. Our Holiday party always ends the year with everyone smiling and full.
