Rare and unusual vintage NuTone Madison CH4000 combination clock and residential doorbell chime, housed in an ornate furniture-style wood cabinet.
This is much more than a decorative clock. Inside the cabinet is an integrated NuTone door-chime system with two tubular chimes, electromagnetic strikers, transformer and original wiring terminals marked COMMON, TRANS, FRONT and REAR, along with the separate Telechron-powered clock mechanism.
The cabinet has beautiful traditional detailing, including turned columns and finials, convex clock glass, Roman-numeral dial and a distinctive black lower panel with gold decoration applied from the reverse side. Ventilation was incorporated into both the top and bottom of the cabinet.
The original rear brass identification plate reads:
PATENTED AND MADE BY NUTONE INCORPORATED — CINCINNATI, OHIO
The clock mechanism is identified as a Warren Telechron synchronous motor, Made in U.S.A. Original interior NuTone components, labels and wiring remain present.
The wood cabinet was gently cleaned and treated with Howard Feed-N-Wax, bringing out the warmth and character of the original finish without refinishing it.
Measurements:
Approximately 20½” H × 11” W × 5½” D
• Height is just under 20½”
• Width at base: 11”
• Width at top: 10¾”
• Depth: 5½”
Condition / Testing:
Clock powers on and the hands have been observed moving. A video showing the clock running is available.
The clock produces a noticeable audible hum while operating. It has not been operated long enough to verify accurate timekeeping.
Part of what makes the Madison so fascinating is the concept itself. This wasn’t simply a clock placed on a mantel—it became part of the home’s wired doorbell system. Once installed, the household could conceivably have the same clock and door chime in that location for decades, potentially 40, 50 years or even longer. Unlike an ordinary mantel clock that could be moved whenever the room was redecorated, moving this one meant dealing with the home’s doorbell wiring as well. It’s an unusual glimpse into an era when a household fixture could truly become a permanent part of the home.
The doorbell/chime functions have not been tested.
Vintage cosmetic wear, marks and patina are present consistent with age. Please review all photographs closely for condition. Service history is unknown. Sold as a vintage collectible with functionality limited to what is specifically described above.
The original internal components make this especially interesting for a NuTone collector, Telechron collector, vintage doorbell/chime collector or collector of unusual early home technology.
It also makes a striking conversation piece simply displayed as a clock, even without connecting the door-chime system.
Shipping: Carefully packed for FedEx Ground/Home Delivery. Insurance recommended.
Staged photographs are AI-assisted and included only to demonstrate a possible setting. Actual-item photographs show the clock being sold.
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