Expert: Michael Radi - 11/26/2009

Question
I have a wall mounted Ridgeway, that I got my from Grandmother, it has serial number 89010023 (Ridgeway) Mvt Q1, setup# 040389, model 793--all from the paper tag on the back of the movements.  and she lost the "paperwork". So want to find out how old, it's a 3 hole face wind, no pendulum, and it's touchy on chiming . was wondering if it needed cleaning or some other little trick to make it chime correctly. Keeps great time.   on a separate note, I have a floor mount Ridgeway grandfather clock, made in 1980, and the minute hand is difficult to move, or say when I move it, the chimes then are all out of wack and does not "catch up", it used to be easy to move, now it's rather stiff. was wondering if it's getting 'gummed up' and should be serviced? PS hard to find a good clock person these days.  thanks for any assistance

Answer
The only way I know to date your ridgeway is to look for a two digit stamp on the back of the movement. It might be 80 for 1980 or some other similar number. It also could be a single letter. If you find a letter let me know and I'll look it up.
All clocks should be oiled every two years. The chime side is usually the first one to sputter from lack of oil. I would try this first.
It sound like both of your clocks are ready for service. I would at least oil them and see if your problems clear up. If they don't they are ready for cleaning and possibly some rebuilding.
Michael
www.norkro.com
clock parts and repair