It's "Time" for a Makeover

Historic Horton Plaza Clock Gets a Makeover

By H. HUGHES

Updated 1:00 PM PST, Mon, Aug 24, 2009

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In Horton Plaza, it's "time" for a makeover. The historic Jessop clock has stopped ticking and needs some tender loving care.

The clock was built in 1907 and installed in San Diego in 1908. It's been in three locations, including in front of the Jessop jewerly store on Fifth Avenue. It's been stationed in Horton Plaza since 1895, which is also the year it was last refurbished.

"It's a classic streetclock which is very unique because the movement was actually built by my great grandfather in his shop here in San Diego," said Jim Jessop. The clock also has gems on it that were mined here locally.

For the next 30 days, this timepiece of San Diego history will get tuned up, repainted and put back in working order, all courtesy of Jessop Jewlers.

"We have found a wonderful clockmaker to take the clock apart, service everything, re-plate everything and make it look as close to new as a 102-year-old clock can look," said Jessop.

The clock has four large dials and the main dial has times from all over the world. The clock also won awards at the California State Fair back in 1907.