Expert: Kenneth Saunders - 1/10/2009

Question
I just acquired a Baldwin humpback mantle clock. Franz Hermle 340-020, 2-jewel movement.  The clock is keeping time. The strikers seem to get stuck before they fall on the chimes.  Is there something I could try to do,or does it sound like professional help will be needed.

Answer
if it is wound tight on all 3 springs - might be a little oil will get it going or it may be worn internally to the point of overhaul or replacement($200 or so for new mechanism) these are generally good for 20+ years - there will be a date or date code on the back of the mechanism where it says 340-020. the timekeeping is the last to fail on these.