Expert: Martin Meyer - 1/10/2009

Question
QUESTION: Mr. Meyer,
I have a beautiful repeater carriage clock from Waterbury Clock co. Pat. # 1890-1891. The clock runs nicely when put on it's side or on it's face but when put upright it runs slowly then stops. Shake it and it will start briefly then stop. All other aspects of the clock work. It is not overwound. Any ideas as to it's illness?

Regards,
Jim

ANSWER: Hi Jim,

There are a number of possible causes of this problem, but one is most likely. Something is creating resistance or jamming of the platform escapement mechanism, most likely of the balance wheel. This could be a bent balance spring or a problem in the escapement lever or escape wheel.

However, the most likely cause lies in the lower pivot of the balance staff (balance wheel shaft). When the clock is upright, the full weight of the balance wheel rests on this lower pivot. The cause of the resistance is probably (in order of likelihood) a broken lower balance staff pivot, a cracked lower balance hole jewel, or need for  lubrication or cleaning of the lower balance staff pivot and hole jewel.

Platform escapements are exceptionally delicate, and I would recommend having a professional clock repairer, experienced in platform escapement work, do any work on this clock.  http://www.clockmasteronline.com

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Martin,
Thank you for the response. Are you of the opinion that I should have the clock repaired? I have limited income and concerned of the cost of repairs. I have been told that a clock like this could be worth $700-$900. In your opinion would the repairs enhance the value of the clock? It has been in the family for years and I am considering selling it. What do you think the clock is worth as is? Do you have an estimate of the cost of repairs?

Regards,
Jim

Answer
Hi Jim,

I can't speak for you on whether you should have the clock repaired or not. I do not give appraisals or valuation, but it is certainly a valuable clock. However, the value of the clock is severely reduced by its not being in working condition. Any potential buyer will, of course, be very reluctant to buy a clock which is not working and needs unknown and possibly expensive repairs. Whatever its potential value, the sale price will be reduced to a fraction of that in its current condition.

Repair costs vary greatly by region and by individual clockmaker, so I'm afraid I also can't give you an idea of what the repair would cost where you live. You should also note that repairers who do this very specialized type of repair, i.e., platform escapement balance staffs and jewels, are very few and always backlogged, so repair times can run to many months. It wouldn't be appropriate for me to give an estimate in this forum, but feel free to contact me at http://www.clockmasteronline.com.