Spitz Clock on West Palace Avenue given “significant” historic status

The Santa Fe Historic Districts Review Board on July 28 designated the Spitz Clock at the northwest corner of Lincoln Avenue and West Palace Avenue as "significant," after staff presented a historic-cultural-properties inventory and public commenters urged prompt maintenance.

Lauren, the preservation staff presenter, summarized the HCPI and staff recommendation that the cast-iron sidewalk clock—about 18 feet tall with a wooden clock head—meets the code standard for an upgrade to "significant" status. John W. Murphy, the consultant who drafted the inventory and was sworn to testify, told the board that a missing "yoke spacer" needs attention to prevent moisture damage to the wooden head. "I think this is very significant," Murphy said, citing the clock's rarity and the limited number of comparable 'pocket watch' heads identified in his research.

Several public commenters supported the designation and urged the city to prioritize repairs. Rick Martinez told the board, "this clock can't wait that much longer," arguing the object required immediate attention rather than waiting for state funds. Elizabeth West said she supported designation and offered to seek maintenance funding from the city council.

Member Cherry moved to designate the object as significant; a second was recorded and the board completed a roll-call vote. Chair Rios announced, "So the clock now has a status of significance," and noted the board could later consider restoration approaches and funding sources. The board did not adopt a restoration plan during the meeting; staff and members discussed future coordination on maintenance and funding.