Expert: William J Perkins - 10/3/2008

Question
Hi, I have a Hermle 451-053, 85 cm/70.777. The clock keeps good time but does not chime properly. I don't know proper clock terminology, but when I reach in the top and pull up on a lever located near the face of the clock, the clock will chime the proper hour. Then as time passes, it will chime properly on the next quarter of hour, half past the hour, and three quarters of an hour. It will not, however, chime again for the next hour until I pull the same lever again. Any suggestions for what might be wrong? Thanks!

Answer
I believe your problem is with the dial train.  The dial train consists of those wheels and pinions involved in the rotation of the minute and hour hands in the 12 to 1 ratio.  These wheels, etc., are referred to as comprising the motion works.  Specifically the lift cam is no longer co-coordinated with the minute hand.  In proper adjustment the highest point of the lift cam must be in line with the minute hand.  If you have never made this adjustment I urge you have a qualified clock repair person perform the task.  Watch that person very carefully to see precisely how it is done.  From this exposure you will have learned how to take care of the problem yourself, should the problem arise again.  Regards WJP