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Because of the variations of clock values throughout the world, and particularly the lack of data on modern production clocks, I regret that I CANNOT DETERMINE CLOCK VALUES. ALSO, WATCHES ARE NOT MY FIELD. However, I can advise the clock owner on proper maintenance of a clock to keep it running, small corrections and adjustments and how to move a clock without damaging it. I can also advise on obtaining parts for clocks. It helps if you can send any information on the clock movement which is usually found on the back plate of the movement. I have been involved in building, repairing and restoring clocks for about 30 years and was plant engineer in the mid 90's and later operations and engineering consultant at Emperor Clock Company in Fairhope, Alabama. I now have my own clock shop.
One of my greatest accomplishments was traveling to China to assist a clock factory in building clocks to the standards which we required. With the proper specifications and quality control, some beautiful clock cases were built. The factory people from the wood carvers to the plant manager were very congenial, friendly and I left a lot of wonderful friends when I returned from my trips.
There are so many different types of clocks that one runs up on a different one each day. But I think that the most important aspect of my business is meeting the people that are the clock owners. They have such facinating stories about their clocks. However, the greatest satisfaction is bringing an old, worn out clock back to life.
Along with my demanding work in repairing and restoring clocks, I hope to start an introductory hands-on clock repair course.
Some of the early clocks were long term used for noting planting times for agriculture, later for timing tides so ships could successfully leave and enter harbors, and so monks could time their vigils in the night. Now the most accurate clock is the cesium atomic waterfall clock whis is accurate to 1 billionth of a second per day!
| User | Date | K | C | T | P | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| buddy | 11/21/09 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | Its a true pleasure to ask you ..... |
| Gerry Turock | 11/20/09 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | John, thanks so much for the timely ..... |
| Angela Starinsky | 11/19/09 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | |
| Peggy | 11/10/09 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | Thank you for such a quick response |
| Ray Buckles | 11/10/09 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | Thanks very much for your reply, I ..... |
Gerry, I think the floating balance is the standard one that was used on most clocks of that nature. It is correct that the company that manufactured these floating balances is no longer in business.
Ron, I just send you an answer, but I received a note from Allexperts that said it did not send. For the Herschede, I have included below, my standard instructions on diagnosing a clock not running
Roscoe, as these hooks vary in style and thread size, you have to have a sample to match. I do this quite often. I do have them and if you will send me the pieces of the broken one, I can match it and
John, if the clock has not been serviced in the last 7 to 10 years, the lubricants have probably become gummy and/or there are some bushings or parts that are worn. The chimes are usually the first to
Peggy, the script word was probably Hermle. First, check the weights. The weights should weigh, from left to right as you face the clock, 4.4#, 4.4# and 6.6#. These will vary slightly between manufacturers
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