Our History
Chicago Clock Company - Family Owned and Operated since 1917
In April 1917, Conrad Utecht, an enterprising young German immigrant, brought an old-world profession to America. In pursuit of the “American Dream,” he began offering clock repair services door-to-door. His friendly manner and skill in clock repair helped him build a successful business from his home. As his reputation and clientele grew, he opened a small shop on Wells Street in downtown Chicago.
In 1936, Conrad’s daughter, Caroline, married a young German baker, Ludwig Matthiesen. Conrad and Ludwig developed a close relationship, and Conrad began teaching his son-in-law the art of clock repair. After several years of apprenticeship, Ludwig joined Conrad in the family business, carrying its craftsmanship and traditions into a second generation.
Caroline and Ludwig’s son, Andrew, developed a fascination with clocks while growing up and spending time with his grandfather. The mystery of their movements and mechanisms captured his imagination and inspired him to follow in his family’s footsteps.
At age twenty, Andrew—known to many as Andy—entered the business by opening a retail store, expanding the family’s focus beyond clock repair. The company occupied several locations over the years before settling at
22 West Madison Street in downtown Chicago.
Andy’s brother, Louie, also joined the business at age twenty. As Chicago Clock Company’s longtime Service Manager, he helped build its reputation for skilled repairs and dependable customer service. Louie has since retired, but his years of dedication remain an important part of the company’s history.
Together, Andy and Louie helped grow Chicago Clock Company by opening stores throughout the Chicagoland area. With the support of a dedicated and knowledgeable team, they built lasting relationships with customers who trusted the company to care for their treasured timepieces.
Andy’s son, Jason Matthiesen, joined the company after graduating from college in 1992, continuing the family tradition into its fourth generation. After many years as Sales Manager, Jason became President of Chicago Clock Company in 2018 and continues to lead its daily operations and growth. Andy has since stepped away from the business, but the foundation he helped build remains an important part of the company today.
With stores in Clarendon Hills, Palatine, and Orland Park, Chicago Clock Company continues to offer an extensive selection of clocks and watches, expert repairs, and in-home grandfather clock service. From helping customers choose a new timepiece to restoring a cherished family heirloom, personal service remains at the heart of the business.
Family owned since 1917, Chicago Clock Company proudly carries forward the craftsmanship, care, and commitment that began with Conrad more than a century ago. Under Jason’s leadership, the tradition continues, supported by a dedicated team and generations of loyal customers.
Tic… Toc… Tic… Toc…
