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Antique Clocks/tall case clock chain

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Expert: David Morgan - 5/7/2011


Question

Wilmington clock
Recently I purchased a 1920 tall case clock by the New Haven Clock Company, which was located just three blocks from where I live.  It is the "Wilmington" model according to Tran Duy Ly.  The clock looks wonderful and has a very resonant gong that is most pleasing.  The person from whom I bought the clock had it serviced by a clockmaker (I know not whom) who put it in working order.  One of the things the clockmaker did, however, is to replace the ladder chain for the two weights.  However, the new chain must have a different spacing of links from what the clock used to have, because when I wind the clock with the crank, the chain does not easily or readily come off the winding gear, and unless I pull it down and away from the gear, it tends to not release itself and can get tangled up making an awful mess.  I know where to buy new ladder chain of differing dimensions, but I don't know how to specify (in links per foot or whatever) the size of chain I need to order.  Since the original chain is long gone, how do I determine what type (links per foot) of chain I really need for the clock to wind properly?  Your answer will be very much appreciated!

Answer
Hi Joseph,these movements were designed to wind by pulling the weights up and therefore avoiding the tangled mess you are describing. The chains require a continues weight to avoid your problem This was a bad design on the New Haven clock company design. By pulling the weight up you avoid the problem. Good Luck David M  

David Morgan

Expertise

Restoration and repair of ALL mechanical clocks and music boxes.

Experience

Teacher and founder of the NAWCC suitcase program as well as teaching at the school of horology NAWCC. Owner and operator of antique clock repair in New Jersey for 30 years

Organizations
Past President of the NAWCC (1997-1999) member and still active for 38 years,,,Awi,,Bhi

Publications
NAWCC Bulletin

Education/Credentials
school of horology teacher,,learned from a masterclock maker in the UK. Graduate of the columbia school of horology

Awards and Honors
Silver Star Fellow and Fellow NAWCC

Past/Present Clients
Private practice,,and Howard Miller service center

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