![]() Because of its scarcity, Young estimates that the wind-up model from 1939 could go for as much as $10,000 at auction.Īlthough he hesitated to give production figures, he indicated: "Every three minutes of every hour of every day for more than 50 years, someone has put one on their wall. Models from the '40s and '50s have sold for several hundred dollars on eBay. ![]() It didn't take long for the outdated electric clocks to become collectors' items. Original Size Kit-Cat Klock Made in America, exclusively by the California Clock Company, since 1932 Featuring the famous rolling eyes, wagging tail. ![]() To reduce the required energy, the eyes were made of a lighter plastic. Kit-Cat's operation requires precision balancing of all the inner workings of the clock with gravity keeping moving parts in motion at a controlled speed. A method of running the clock's precision mechanisms with less energy had to be explored.īy 1990, the company had developed the capability for two C-size batteries to supply the power for animation and time keeping. "Our choice was to raise prices astronomically or come up with a new mechanism for battery operation," Young said.Īt that time, the technology for a battery powerful enough to run the clock's one-second animation, which moved the eyes and tail, did not exist. The introduction of battery-powered, digital clocks cut the need and therefore the production of American-made electric motors, essential to the Kit-Cat, sending their cost skyrocketing. Besides the classic gentleman cat, a lady Kit-Cat, limited-edition colors and jeweled models adorned with Swarovski crystals have been among the product offerings.ĭespite the clock's popularity, this bit of nostalgia was nearly lost in the 1980s. Other animals including Disney's Pluto, a teddy bear, a panda, a poodle and an owl were made for a short time during the company's history, but nothing sold like Kit-Cat. "It's always been the most popular," Young said. The original, classic black Kit-Cat with the white bow tie still outsells all of the company's products. However, the appearance of its 151/2-inch-by-4-inch plastic body hasn't changed much since front paws and a bow tie were added in the early '50s. The internal clock mechanism evolved from a wind-up style to electric and finally battery operation during its life span. Young still maintains a post office box in San Juan Capistrano because of the number of printed materials still circulating with this address nationwide. Kittens this young require round-the-clock care and bottle feeding every two hours. A few years later, the company relocated again to San Juan Capistrano, Calif., where it remained for 30 years. How to save & take care of a kitten and feral cats - an advocacy tool. In the early '60s, the company moved its operation to El Monte and changed its name to The California Clock Co. Silent movement.In the 1940s, stamps reveal that the clocks were made in Seattle. This is an official, brand new full sized Kit-Cat Clock the iconic time piece with moving eyes and wagging tail thats brought a smile to generations of. This now timeless piece of Americana continues to spread cheer with his wily expression and contagious grin. Through the 1950s, Kit-Cat's popularity skyrocketed, and the dapper feline became a fixture in the American kitchen and synonymous with the era. The clock was created by a designer from a small town in Oregon during the height of the Great Depression. With his signature wagging tail, rolling eyes, and irresistible smile, the Kit-Cat Clock has been an indelible part of American history and popular culture for more than 80 years. ![]() Design in Oregon, America during the Great Depression, it became a symbol of the American kitchen and is now a timeless piece of Americana with its contagious smile. NJ Croce Felix the Cat 3D Motion Wall Clock Authentic Original NEW Boxed. The Classic Kit-Cat clock in black with its wagging tail, rolling eyes and wily smile is a classic part of pop culture for more than 80 years.
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