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For half a century, the Clock Shop of Vienna has kept mechanical timepieces ticking from its distinctive storefront at 109 Church Street NW.

Founded in 1975 by Donny Sobel and retired watchmaker Tony Sugguto, the family-run business has restored more than 25,000 clocks, according to Sobel. Its reputation has produced an approximately 18-month backlog, with some repairs taking 16 to 24 months to complete.

Sobel’s interest in horology grew from his father’s business supplying parts to clock companies. After developing an aptitude for repairs, he sought guidance from Sugguto to refine his skills. The pair opened their business as another Vienna clock shop was closing.

Sobel was 23 when he became the youngest member of the clock-making guild. Today, three generations of his family are involved in the store, along with extended family members working in repairs and sales. Donny, Gail and Judy are among its core staff.

The team evaluates each timepiece before providing a repair or restoration estimate. In some cases, customers are advised against proceeding when the expense is difficult to justify or a successful long-term result appears unlikely.

More than 500 clocks are displayed for sale in the showroom. The inventory includes models from Herschede, David Lindow, Hermle, Howard Miller, Chelsea, Comitti, Bulova, Schneider and Seiko.

Repairs remain central to the business. The shop services and restores fine mechanical clocks in-house and recommends applying fresh oil every three years. Staff members can also teach owners how to perform that routine maintenance.

Sobel has shared his expertise beyond the family business as the number of skilled mechanical clock repairers has dwindled. When young clockmaker Ryan Johnson approached him for guidance, Sobel welcomed him into the shop. He has also been willing to teach techniques to competing businesses in hopes of preserving the trade.

The store’s storybook-like facade, quarter-hour chorus of clocks and resident cat have helped make it a familiar Church Street landmark. For Sobel, the lasting reward comes from knowing that thousands of clocks continue to run because his family helped restore them.