You are here:

Clocks, Watches/Seth Thomas clock troubles

Expert: William J Perkins - 10/29/2008

Question

Hello Mr. Perkins, I wonder if you can help me. About 20 years ago my parents gave me a very pretty Seth Thomas mantel/shelf clock. Although I love this clock, I confess to not having done a stellar job taking care of it. It has never had cleaning or maintenance -- I live in central Italy now (the clock survived the trip here!) and I don't know who I could take it to. While my clock keeps pretty good time (it is only a tiny bit too fast), its main problems are: 1) the glass panel on the left side is missing, 2) the thing which strikes the brass coil to make the ringing sound is missing, 3) when it tries to chime (by making a clicking sound) it is six hours ahead (in other words, for example, it chimes 8 times at 2:00), and 4) it makes a terrible clunking sound whenever I wind it, and that is, when winding the right keyhole and also when winding the left keyhole. Many, many thanks for any help you can offer.

Answer
What a lovely clock! It is a great example of a Seth Thomas, Empire Series Crystal Regulator. It does not sound as if your clock has a serious problem. I believe a good cleaning and a few simple adjustments would put it right. Replacing the glass and hammer would be a simple matter for a qualified clock repair person. I am sorry to say I have no contacts in Italy I could refer you too. Italy has a strong presence in the world of horology, you should have no problem finding a clocksmith to help you. My very best regards. WJP

Questioner's Rating

Rating(1-10)	Knowledgeability = 10	Clarity of Response = 7	Politeness = 10
Comment	I was curious to know the cause of the clunking sound, but that's all right, I very much appreciate your kind and speedy reply. Thanks!