Clocks, Watches/Kern Key Torsion

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Expert: - 10/28/2009


Question

Kern Clock
Hello,

We just got a Kern Torsion clock, engraved on the bottom is 235/282 and a Mark PJT, and it has a key but we don't even know if it works. It also is made with etched and carved glass, brass with a white face. What can you tell us about? Can we safely determine if it is working correctly ourselves?  

Attached is a photo.  

Your help with information would be greatly appreciated.  

Thank you. David.

Answer
David, you raised an interesting question (to me!).  I had never run across a Kern.  And we seldom refer to them as "torsion" clocks, which is the proper description.  We usually call them 400 day or anniversary clocks.  I did some research and found some good information.  I'll just direct you to Google under "Kern Clocks".  The first hit is about "Aussie Clocks" which is a chapter of the NAWCC (National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors).  They collect torsion clocks and there are photos and descriptions of quite a few Kerns.  Check out the photo at the lower right of the page.  It is called a carriage clock and is similar to yours.  The top of yours seems to be a little flatter.  If I were you I would contact them www.aussieclocks.com and send a photo.  I think they would probably have some really good information.  Every time I research and answer a question I learn a little.  This time I learned quite a bit.  From nothing to quite a lot.  Now when I am at the NAWCC Conventions and Marts, I will be on the lookout for some.

In answer to your last question, the torsion clocks in good condition run for a long time.  However, they are rather delicate and any bump or jolt can put them out of balance.  The torsion spring has to be in perfect condition and the fork at the top has to be positioned properly and the beat adjustment is rather critical.  I have quite a few come into my shop with broken suspension springs (torsion springs) or they have been twisted like a candy cane.  There are a lot of clock shops that will not take them in because they just don't know how to work on them.  There is only one book available that is the "bible" of these clocks and it is very good.  But restored properly and if care is taken in protecting the clock, it can give you years of pleasure.  To start one, make sure it is level and stable.  The mainspring is wound and the rotating pendulum is carefully turned about one turn and released.  Good luck with your Kern and I hope you enjoy it.

John Newman
THE VILLAGE CLOCKSMITH
Old Prattvillage
Prattville, Alabama

John Newman

Expertise

As much as I would like to offer values of clocks, I am not a certified appraiser and will not venture into giving an unresearched guess. There is very little published information on what I consider to be the value of "modern production clocks". Considerations are what the clock originally sold for, the condition of the case and movement, and particularly the area in which you live, the demand and the economy. ALSO, WATCHES ARE NOT MY FIELD. However, I can advise the clock owner on proper maintenance of a clock to keep it running, small corrections and adjustments and how to move a clock without damaging it. I can also advise on obtaining parts for clocks. It helps if you can send any information on the clock movement which is usually found on the back plate of the movement. I have been a clockmaker for about 35 years and was plant engineer in the mid 90's and later operations and engineering consultant at Emperor Clock Company in Fairhope, Alabama. I now have my own clock shop.

Experience

One of my greatest accomplishments was traveling to China to assist a clock factory in building clocks to the standards which we required. With the proper specifications and quality control, some beautiful clock cases were built. The factory people from the wood carvers to the plant manager were very congenial, friendly and I left a lot of wonderful friends when I returned from my trips.

Organizations
Chamber of Commerce Small Business Committee

Publications
Horological Times, a publication of the American Watch and Clockmakers Instute. Collaberated column author, with Photos and ideas for clock movement conversion article.

Education/Credentials
Associate of Science Mechanical Engineering Technology Emperor Introductory Clock Repair (Eventually taught a portion of the class after becoming employee)

Awards and Honors
Small Business of the Quarter (Prattville, Alabama) Leadership Class of 2009 (Autauga County, Alabama)

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