Expert: William J Perkins - 10/28/2008

Question
QUESTION: I can only get my pendulum to begin swinging by manually pushing it with my finger and then it swings for only approximately 15 secs. My winding key has 2 different size square openings, one at each end. The smaller opening fits a "screw" at the top of the clock above the "12" with "S" to the left and "F" to the right (presumably to adjust the speed). I can turn this screw in either direction seemingly forever but it doesn't start the pendulum. The other end of the key, with the larger hole, fits 2 screws, one between the "4" and "5" and the other between the "7" and "8". The left screw only moves a little counterclockwise and moves the gears that rotate when the gong strikes the half- and full hours. The right screw only moves a little counterclockwise, moving the minute hand slightly. How can I get the pendulum to both begin and to continue swinging by winding it? To what use can I put the 2 larger screws? Thank you for your help.

ANSWER: Your clock undoubtedly needs servicing.  No amount of winding or adjustment of speed will alleviate that need.  You are quite right in your ascertion that one end of the key turns the speed regulator shaft which when turned one way raise the pendulum and lowers it when turned the opposite direction.  Raising the pendulum speeds up the clock and lowering slows it down.  The other end of the key, as you rightly said, fits the winding arbors, which through turning winds the mainsprings.  In your instance the old timer is telling you he is in dire need of a good bath and maybe a tad of medicine in the form of repair.  It is my opinion that all Ansonia clock are worth their keep.  Wish you luck, Regards WJP

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

QUESTION: Thank you very much for your helpful advice. Is there a service and repair shop in New York, NY (or vicinity) that you can recommend so that I can bring it in by hand and not have to mail the clock?

Answer
You can find a repair person by visiting the following site on the Internet  <local.com>  Enter the sight name and you will be taken to a search screen.  In the box provided for search enter, clock repair.
In the box for location enter your city and zip code.  Then click search.  You will be rewarded by a list of possible providers.  Take your time in selecting one.  Don't be afraid to ask questions.  Personally I would seek out a candidate who has graduated from an accredited school of horology and who currently belongs to allied professional organization, such as AWI and/or NAWCC or BCI.   I wish you luck, Regards WJP