Collections

This collection represents the evolution of American time recording technology from the 1890s through the 1920s. From early dial recorders to sophisticated card systems, these clocks revolutionized workplace attendance tracking and helped build the foundation for modern time management systems.

Dial Recorders

Dial recorders were an early form of time recording technology where employees would use a key or handle to mark their arrival and departure times on a circular dial. The mechanism would print a mark on paper or porcelain dials, creating a permanent record of attendance.

Dey Patents Company

1898 • Syracuse, NY

A unique dial recorder made by the predecessor company of the Dey Time Register Company of Syracuse, NY. Extensive company data is presented with a detailed view of this early time recorder.

Bundy Manufacturing Co. Dial Recorder

1898 • Binghamton, NY

A very rare example of a Bundy designed, patented and manufactured dial recorder. Few examples of this clock are known as this model was not very popular in the 1890s.

Syracuse Time Recorder Co.

1905 • Syracuse, NY

A heavy, cast iron dial recorder made through about 1910. Syracuse was purchased by ITR in 1908, and few examples were sold by ITR thereafter.

International Time Recorder Dial Recorder

1906 • Endicott, NY

A rare example of a Bundy designed and patented dial recorder which was manufactured to compete against the Dey dial recorder. This is a 50 employee dial recorder - the only known example.

Howard Time Recording Co.

1910 • Boston, MA

A dial recorder made by a company associated with the E. Howard Clock Co., a prestigious American clock manufacturer.

Key Recorders

Key recorders were sophisticated mechanical time clocks where each employee had an individual key. When the key was inserted and turned, the clock would record the time on a paper roll or card, creating a permanent record of when each employee arrived or left.

Bundy Manufacturing Company

1895 • Binghamton, NY

A complete Bundy with an early case design and etched glass in the door. An early example of an original Bundy made prior to the formation of ITR in 1901.

Bundy No. 7 - The New Bundy

1898 • Binghamton, NY

Originally sold to the US Postal Service. The Bundy No. 7 is very scarce. This clock has two individual doors as well as an alarm attachment which will ring a large bell at predetermined times.

Bundy Manufacturing Company

1905 • Binghamton, NY

A complete Bundy Key Recorder manufactured for the Great Britain market and made in Binghamton, NY. This Bundy was made after the formation of ITR in 1901.

Card Recorders & Other Recording Clocks

Card recorders represented the next evolution in time recording technology. Each employee had a time card that would be stamped by the clock, creating a more detailed record of attendance. This section also includes other specialized recording devices such as in-out recorders and watchman's clocks.