6 Interesting Facts About the Famous Worth Avenue Clock Tower

One of the most iconic landmarks in Palm Beach is the famous clock tower that caps the ritziest shopping district that is Worth Avenue. Although you may recognize the famous structure, you may not know its history and significance.

Here are six interesting facts about the Worth Avenue Clock Tower in Palm Beach, Florida:

1. 1. Modern Landmark: Standing at 25-feet tall, the Worth Avenue Clock Tower was built in 2010.
  2. Restoration Effort: The Clock Tower was part of a $15.8 million renovation of Worth Avenue aimed at restoring the area’s grandeur, which included new landscaping and improvements to the shopping district. The tower is made from coquina stone and cost $600,000.
  3. Architectural Style: The Clock Tower is designed in the Moorish Revival style, reminiscent of the Mediterranean architecture brought to the area by architect Addison Mizner in the 1910s.
  4. Historical Significance: The Worth Avenue Clock Tower commemorates the former site of the Palm Beach Pier. The Palm Beach Pier was initially named Rainbo Pier and was built in 1925 by Danish immigrant Peter Gustav Jordahn, also known as “Captain Gus.” However, during the Great Depression, Captain Gus would sell the pier and it would be renamed Palm Beach Pier, which would become a favorite attraction featuring a coffee shop, cocktail lounge, tackle shop, and fishermens’ lockers. After getting battered by hurricanes in the 1940s and 1960s, the Palm Beach Pier was eventually demolished for safety concerns in 1969.
  5. Precision: The Clock Tower features 4 clock faces – one on each side of the tower. The time is maintained with precision, so be sure to align your watches!
  6. Community Tradition: Locals gather at the Worth Avenue Clock Tower every New Year’s Day at sunrise for a community photo, continuing the spirit of celebration associated with the former pier. Will you be at the next New Year’s Day sunrise?!