Sunday, October 5, 2014

In Search Of: The KMAC Clock


   I've always been fascinated with the green neon KMAC clocks that used to be very prominent in San Antonio. With each passing year it gets harder and harder to find any. In fact, today, I only know of one that still is on display. In the Nix Hospital Parking Garage, (Downtown, above Dick's Last Resort on the Riverwalk) there is still one that you can see from the street.





   KMAC was a radio station that existed in San Antonio until the early 1980s (the station was at 630 kHz).  According to the late Joe Anthony, formerly of KMAC radio and the self-professed "godfather of rock and roll," the clocks were part of a radio promotion from 1956 to 1958. The green neon clocks were given as a bonus to businesses which bought thirty-two one-minute commercials for 250 dollars.

   Most establishments that had the clocks reported that they have never owned a timepiece that kept better time. Many owners received offers for their clocks that exceed their original investment, few ever parted with them.

   I searched the internet for a picture of a KMAC Clock and I only could find two, including thisfrom this photo of the old Hot Wells Motel. If anybody knows of any other KMAC clocks still on display or perhaps for sale, please leave us a comment. 



UPDATE:  I wanted to include some photos of KMAC clocks that readers have sent me.  If you have one and want to share, send a picture to Mark@TheTravisClub.com







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10 comments:

  1. There's one in hung Fong on Broadway.

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  2. I have one at Yeyas Antiques & Oddities displayed, love the Green Neon Color

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  3. Hi i have one at my house that was given by a friend late husbands.

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    Replies
    1. Would you care to share a picture of one that I could post. (I will say it's from a private collection)

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  4. I have one of these clocks hanging in my room. What are they valued at?

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  5. I have one of these clocks hanging in my room. What are they valued at?

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    Replies
    1. I have heard that they are valued at anywhere from $1500 to $2500

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    2. Would you care to share a picture of yours that I could post. I would say it's from a private collection

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