Expert: William J Perkins - 5/22/2008

Question
Hi,
My Mother-in-law gave us a Seth Thomas wall clock. The paper says its Model 1760-000 name is Drop Octagon Strike. There are 2 holes in the front of the clock the hole on the left does nothing if I turn the key left and if I turn it right it eventually tightens but if I let the key go it just spins back. The hole on the right sounds like its turning gears but no winding. My first question is hold old is this clock and does it have any substantial value? My second one would be if it does where would one get this repaired or is there something you can tell me to easily fix it? If I swing the pendulum it makes no ticking sound at all and if I move the hands there is no chiming at all either.
Thanks for any info!
Debbie

Answer
The last price I have on a Drop Octagon was $225.00/$250.00 in 1995.  This was for a clock in very good condition.  It sounds like you have mainspring issues.  I would not reccomend you attempt to attend to them yourself.  Mainspring work can be very dangerous.  You should take the clock to a qualified clock repair person.  It could be as simple a thing as a click spring adjustment or a requirement for major repair.  You have nothing to lose by getting an estimate.  Regards WJP