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Clocks, Watches/Seth Thomas Quartz movement Bim-Bam
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Question
I have a Seth Thomas Quartz movement Bim-Bam chime clock Model Georgetown the no. is A2206-0011, Talley Industries. The movement is no longer working and I would like to know if I can replace it with a new movement and which movement is best for replacement.
Jack, as there is little information available on the model numbers of battery powered/quartz movements, I do not know what yours looks like. However, I don't think there would be any problem replacing it. You can Google Klockit and Timesavers as they both have On-line catalogs and you might be able to find an exact replacement or a similar one for your movement. The factors that determine whether it will fit are the overall dimensions of the case, the length of the handshaft mounting bushing as related to the dial thickness, and if it has a pendulum, making sure the swing clears any pieces such as a lower cross frame. Also most of the models usually have speakers that are externally mounted from the movement, so sound holes have to be drilled in the back, top or side of the case. Also, if it isn't already there, a back panel has to be made to access the movement for battery replacement and adjustment of the controls for melody selection, volume and night off features. I am doing more and more of these conversions for customers that don't want to spend the money for restoration of the "economy" mechanical movements or for replacement of the "tinny" sounding quartz movements. If you have any further questions on any of this, get back with me.
John Newman
THE VILLAGE CLOCKSMITH
Old Prattvillage
Prattville, Alabama
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Answers by Expert:
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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