Iconic NASCAR manufacturer to shut down after 99 years as Dale Jr. issues warning

An iconic NASCAR partner and manufacturer of one of the most popular rarities in the sport has announced that it will be shutting down after nearly a century.

Howard Miller, the iconic clock-making company which owns the Ridgeway Clock brand, has announced its intention to shutter operations in the fourth quarter of this year.

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The Ridgeway Clock brand has manufactured the iconic grandfather clocks given as trophies to NASCAR winners at Martinsville since 1964, and was acquired by Howard Miller in 2004.

Company president and CEO Howard J. Miller, the grandson of the company's founder, has directly blamed President Trump's import taxes for the decision to close up shop on the business and its nearly 200 employees.

Dale Jr.: Don't get cute with replacement clocks

It's unclear whether NASCAR will find another manufacturer for the clocks or decide to bring the curtain down on one of its most iconic traditions, with Dale Earnhardt Jr. warning on Twitter: "Whomever makes the next version better make them exactly like the previous versions. Don't get cute and f**k this up."

In a statement released on Thursday, Miller said: “Our business has been directly impacted by tariffs that have increased the cost of essential components unavailable domestically and driven specialty suppliers out of business, making it unsustainable for us to continue our operations."

He continued: “We are deeply grateful to our talented team, our committed distributors and our loyal customers who have supported us throughout the years.

"We will complete orders currently in process with the intent of winding down manufacturing operations and then remaining open and available into next year as the finished goods of clocks and furniture are sold through the company’s various distribution channels.”

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