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After 48 Years, Lafayette’s Most Whimsical Store Has Closed

Lafayette, CA — It’s a bittersweet sight. After nearly five decades, Clocks Etc., a beloved fixture in Lafayette’s Fiesta Square shopping center, has officially closed its doors. The signage has been removed and the storefront now sits vacant.

The shop, known for its eclectic charm and extensive collection of clocks, had been a cornerstone of downtown Lafayette since it first opened in 1976. Owners Scott and Wendy announced their decision to retire earlier this year, citing a desire to transition to a slower pace of life.

Before the closure

The closure marks the end of an era for the community. Clocks Etc. started in a modest 400-square-foot space on the east end of Lafayette before expanding to its final 2,600-square-foot location in 1999. Over the years, the store became synonymous with its joyful, clock-filled walls and its dedication to clock repair services, which will continue at an off-site location under Scott’s guidance.

A farewell note posted in the shop’s window expressed gratitude to the Lafayette community for decades of support. It encouraged locals to continue championing small businesses and giving back to the community.

The closure of Clocks Etc. leaves a legacy of cherished memories and handcrafted timepieces in the hearts of its customers. Residents can still enjoy new small businesses in the area, including Little Seeds, El Talpense, and the Breakfast Club, ensuring the spirit of downtown Lafayette remains vibrant.

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Thomas Smith

Thomas Smith is a food and travel photographer and writer based in the San Francisco Bay Area. His photographic work routinely appears in publications including Food and Wine, Conde Nast Traveler, and the New York Times and his writing appears in IEEE Spectrum, SFGate, the Bold Italic and more. Smith holds a degree in Cognitive Science (Neuroscience) and Anthropology from the Johns Hopkins University.

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