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Clocks, Watches/Remove Movement from Dial

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Expert: Martin Meyer - 11/23/2009


Question

clock movement
Hello Martin.  I am trying to remove a Hermle movement 451-050H from it's clock dial.  On the four corners the movement sets on small posts coming up from the clock dial.  The posts have holes in them where a tiny piece of metal goes through the hole to secure it in place.  It seems like all that needs to be done is pull the metal piece out with pliers but I'm not sure.. I tried and nothing is happening.  I appreciate the help.

Answer
Hi Ken,

These are taper pins and are used very commonly to attach the dial posts to the movement. First, you need to be certain which is the large end of the taper, and which is the small. Sometimes the taper is very slight and hard to see without a magnifier. Once you know this, and so know which direction to pull the pin in, you do just pull the pins out with a pliers. These pins can sometimes be in quite tight, especially if the movement is older and some corrosion has formed between the pins and the dial feet holes. It is often necessary to move the pin back and forth with the pliers to loosen it up, but be careful not to twist too hard, or the pin will break off flush with the hole, and then be very difficult to remove. If you decide to use any penetrating oil, which I do NOT recommend, make absolutely sure that it comes into contact only with the taper pin and dial foot, and not anywhere in the movement. Never spray it on; apply with a toothpick or very small screwdriver tip just at the taper pin. After using it, use a good degreaser, such as lacquer thinner, to remove any traces of penetrating oil.  http://www.clockmasteronline.com

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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