Anderson Clockmaker Helps Keep Dying Art Alive

Greg Wilson/Anderson Observer

In centuries past, clocks were considered prize possessions, with fine cabinetry and even sometimes dedicated clock attendants.

But in the digital age, mechanical clocks have all but disappeared, along with those who know how to keep the vintage timepieces running. In 1920, there were 50,000 independent watchmakers in the United States. Today, there are fewer than 5,000. 

Anderson’s Chris Campbell is among those keeping the flame of horology – clock repair – burning. A third-generation maker and repairer of clocks and watches, Campbell is one of the few remaining practitioners in the region. He said he has worked on clocks and watches from all 50 states during his years in the work.

In his shop near downtown Anderson, Cambell keeps the magic alive with a workroom constantly full of timepieces being repaired, and is proud to follow in the tradition of his father and grandfather in the business.