In the early 20th century, sidewalks clocks were essential timekeepers for busy businessmen and effective advertisement for operating businesses. The gilded cast iron clock stands in front of 200 5th Avenue, the former Fifth Avenue Building. It was commissioned in 1909 by the company to replace a recently removed clock which stood in the same spot. The ornate piece was designed by Brooklyn-based Hecla Iron Works in 1909 and was modeled after the work of 16th Century Venetian architect Vioncenzo Scamozzi. It features classical ornamentation and a fluted Ionic column, and is considered to be one of the most impressive in the city.
In 1981, the clock became an NYC landmark. In 2011, Tiffany & Co. sponsered its full restoration.
| internal | The Magnificent 1909 Cast Iron Street Clock at 200 Fifth Avenue |