Clam Chowder Soup

Name: Clam Chowder Soup
Ingredients: 4 slices bacon; 1 large onion (peeled and chopped); 2 celery ribs (chopped); 1 clove garlic (minced); 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh); 3 small potatoes (peeled and cubed (see note 1)); 1 cup water; 1 (8-ounce) bottle clam juice ((see note 2)); 1 tablespoon chicken base ((see note 3)); 2 cups half and half (divided); 1/3 cup all-purpose flour; 2 (6.5-ounce) cans chopped clams (undrained (see note 4)); Salt and freshly ground black pepper; Oyster crackers (for serving)