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Question
What is used to lubricate the old wooden plates and metal arbors of wooden works clocks.
Hi Gene,
This depends on the bearing material used for each pivot. The original bearings on antique wooden works clocks are either ivory, brass or simply holes in the wood plates.
Wood and ivory bearings are self-lubricating and require no lubrication. Brass bearings should be lubricated with clock oil. Never use ordinary oil like 3-in-1. You should be careful to apply only a small amount of oil to the brass bearing, as getting oil on the wood can soften and weaken the wood.
Oil should also be applied to the escape wheel bearings, the verge bearings and the pallet faces.
Ivory bearings wear very badly, and are often replaced with molybdenum-impregnated nylon bearings. These bearings are also self-lubricating, and require no oil.
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Answers by Expert:
Martin Meyer
Expertise
Can answer repair and service questions for most types of clocks, antique and modern, mechanical and battery. NO watches, appraisals, identification, history, dating, or questions about cuckoo clocks. Website for Modern and Antique Clock Repair: Clockmasteronline.com
Experience
24 Years as owner and repairman of clock repair business, 28 years in the field. Factory Independent Service Center for Howard Miller, Ridgeway and (formerly) Sligh Clocks. Specializing in Fine Antique Longcase (grandfather) clocks. Clock repair Website: (Please remove "Not" from the address - this is a spam protection): www.NotClockmasteronline.com
Organizations
AWCI (American Watchmakers and Clockmakers Institute) and NAWCC (National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors)
Publications
Am also an Expert in the "AllExperts-Antiques-Antique Clocks" Category.
Education/Credentials
Trained by a former Rolex Asia watchmaker, and by a Master Watchmaker/Clockmaker.
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