The Reno Watch and Clock store is running out of time. It certainly kept some old-time tradition on south Virginia Street next door to the Atlantis. It's not just the store that's been there awhile. Inside is a 147-year old classic…an old wood-cased clock that’s elaborate in the way most things were back then. Nearby is the handmade clock made by an Italian jeweler, its ornate style standing apart from the sleek timepieces we're now used to. And shop owner Philip Narong is a big fan of the store’s grandfather clocks: "Inside, you know, the movement inside is very special."
Philip’s story begins in Thailand when he was 14. That's when he learned the trade, because he had to: "I learned from my uncle because I came from a poor family, that's why."
His journey to Reno was personal. Visiting from San Francisco, he just liked the town. He also knew how to make a business…tick. His store has been here for 30 years, but will close this year. As he told us, “I'm going to miss Nevada, all the customers. Why the close? I want to enjoy my life."
Reno Watch and Clock seemed to be the perfect name back in 1987. Ticking clocks and mechanical watches were more popular then. But time itself changed this business, more so than others. Philip agrees: "Yeah, times have changed. Times have changed and it’s time to enjoy life."
Clocks like his ruled the day…but that was then, before electronics took over. Philip will close his shop sometime in December. Till then, you will find second hands and pendulums surrounded by ornate woodwork in all its glory, along with the unforgettable, nostalgic sound of the tick-tock we grew up with. A sound that still brings joy to Philip: "Yeah, tick tock sounds so very nice! Yeah...lot of fun."
A lifetime of working with tiny screws and tools while wearing his timepiece glasses will be gone too soon. When his store closes, he'll enjoy life. Longtime customers may not. As he told us, "It's going to be very hard. It's not easy to find a watchmaker and clocks in Reno." While the walls inside will be eerily quiet, for the first time in 30 years.
