Expert: Martin Meyer - 10/12/2008

Question
I inherited this 20-year-old clock from my parents.  It keeps perfect time and the chime works perfectly.  However the circular "pendulum" at the bottom does not spin as it should. The spring and stop mechanism are all in place at the top of the pendulum, but it does not receive any 'spin' inertia from the clock mechanism (even though I hear a 'click' inside every 4-5 seconds).  The battery is fresh.  I do not have the manual.  Is there any way to get inside and try to fix the 'spin' mechanism?

Answer
Hi Scott,

Quartz movements are generally sealed in plastic cases, and are not repairable. You would have to replace the whole movement with a new one, if available. However, quartz movements have changed a great deal in the last 20 years, and a compatible movement may not be available. From your description, it sounds like your clock has a rotating pendulum, similar to a 400-Day (Anniversary) clock. This will make matching up a new movement considerably more difficult.  http://www.clockmasteronline.com