In a large pot over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy.
Remove the bacon bits and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
Add the diced onion and celery to the pot, sautéing until translucent and fragrant.
Stir in the diced potatoes and pour in the clam juice.
Bring the liquid to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender.
In a small bowl, whisk the arrowroot powder into the heavy cream until smooth.
Stir the cream mixture into the pot and simmer for 2 minutes until the broth thickens.
Add the chopped clams, fresh thyme, sea salt, and black pepper.
Heat for an additional 3 minutes until the clams are warmed through, then serve topped with the crispy bacon.