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About Steve Skibicki
Expertise
I have experience in all phases and types of clock repair. Please visit my website at http://eastcoastclockrepair.com/

Experience
Twenty two years as a full time repairman and restorer

Publications
Clockmakers Newsletter

Education/Credentials
School of Clock Repair and Restoration

 
   

You are here:  Experts > Style > Antiques > Antique Clocks > Strikes incorrectly

Antique Clocks - Strikes incorrectly


Expert: Steve Skibicki - 7/12/2008

Question
I have the same problem as a previous writer. My old Seth Thomas mantle clock strikes erratically. Sometimes 20 or 30 times but sometimes just off no matter how I reset it using the hour hand. The clock has a number 89 movement, strikes the half hour with a bell and the hours with a gong.

The thing is that I had the clock repaired and serviced by a well known and reputable clock repairman and it worked well for about a month.  When it started misbehaving he took it back and worked on it some more and again it worked well for about a month.

He seemed to think that the clock was working well each time and that he had done everything possible. He also ran the clock on his bench for at least a week each time.

So my question is, can this clock be made to work reliably, Chime on the right hour, and keep reasonably good time? Or am I fighting a losing battle because the clock is too worn?

This belonged to my grandfather and has sentimental value.

Thanks

Answer
Hello Richard,
When a clock is this troublesome a few things come into play.
First of all servicing usually equates to a cleaning and oiling. This  does nothing to correct wear present in the movement or most other problems.
What the repair guy should have done is a complete overhaul which means rebuilding the clock.
I do not do this to advertise my business but if you can't get your guy to repair the clock reliably I  can do it.
the truth is that most clocks can be repaired.

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