The Samuels Clock: A Market Street Icon
A historic San Francisco landmark on Market Street, the Samuels Clock has stood since 1915, witnessing the city's evolution and embodying its enduring spirit.
The Samuels Clock, a San Francisco landmark since 1915, stands proudly on Market Street as a testament to the city's resilience and history. Commissioned by Albert S. Samuels, an Austrian watchmaker, the clock has witnessed significant events, from the Panama-Pacific Exposition to the construction of BART. Its ornate design, featuring a four-faced clock atop a fluted Corinthian column, blends Art Deco and Austrian craftsmanship. Despite facing vandalism and periods of disrepair, the clock has been lovingly restored, embodying San Francisco's spirit of preservation and community pride. A bronze plaque dedicates the clock to the public, while its presence has even touched the world of literature, appearing in the works of mystery writer Dashiell Hammett, who once worked for Samuels. The clock remains a beloved symbol of old San Francisco amidst the bustling modern city.
A brief summary to The Samuels Clock
- Market St, San Francisco, Union Square, California, 94102, US
Local tips
- Visit during the day to fully appreciate the clock's intricate details and take memorable photos.
- Combine your visit with a ride on the historic F-Market streetcar for a quintessential San Francisco experience.
- Explore nearby Union Square for shopping, dining, and a glimpse into San Francisco's vibrant culture.
Getting There
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Public Transport
The Samuels Clock is easily accessible via public transportation. Several Muni Metro lines (J, K, L, M, T) and BART trains stop at the Powell Street Station, which is directly adjacent to the clock. From the station, exit onto Market Street and the clock will be visible just outside. A single ride on Muni costs $2.50, while BART fares vary depending on the distance traveled.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide a convenient way to reach the Samuels Clock. A short ride from other downtown locations typically costs between $10 and $15, depending on traffic and demand. Be sure to specify the address (856 Market Street) or the Powell Street Station as your destination.
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Walking
If you are already in the Union Square area, walking to the Samuels Clock is a pleasant option. From Union Square, head southwest on Market Street for approximately two blocks. The clock will be located on the right-hand side of the street, near the intersection of Powell Street. The walk is relatively flat and takes about 5-10 minutes.
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Driving
Driving to the Samuels Clock is possible, but parking in the immediate vicinity can be challenging and expensive. Several parking garages are located within a few blocks, including the Hearst Garage (155 Stevenson St) and the California Parking Company at 1266 Market St. Hourly parking rates typically range from $4 to $8. Be aware of heavy traffic congestion on Market Street, especially during peak hours.
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