The Fitch Acceleration Clock

Name/Title

The Fitch Acceleration Clock

Description

This photograph of the engineer's bell book shows a custom-made display added to one of the USS Yorktown (CV-10)'s meters. Dubbed "The Fitch Acceleration Clock", Engineer Stephen Fitch claims that the addition is one of a kind and unique to the USS Yorktown (CV-10).

Context

From the collection of Stephen Fitch, who was part of the inaugural crew and a plankowner of the USS Yorktown (CV-10). Stephen Fitch was a Lt. Commander in the Engineering Department on the USS Yorktown (CV-10). An artist at heart, Fitch would draw both small cartoons and comics as well as detailed schematics of engine compartments and staterooms. Fitch is also the artist behind the squadron emblems on the flight deck killboards.

Collection

Stephen Fitch Collection

Acquisition

Accession

2018.6

Source or Donor

Richard G. Fitch

Acquisition Method

Gift

Made/Created

Date made

1943 - 1945

Inscription/Signature/Marks

Type

Inscription

Location

Back of Photograph.

Transcription

The "Fitch Acceleration Clock" an exclusive first used on the "mighty Y" When hull is recorded, place present speed at the minute hand and accelerate as indicated each minute. Acceleration on inner circle, deceleration on outer circle.

Update Date

February 21, 2025