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Question
My father bought an Emperor Clock (model 120) back in 1982. It was a gift for my sister. Unfortunately they have both passed on, so I have no paper work. I recently had it cleaned (about 3 months)and it is now gaining time daily,no more than 6 minutes in a week. I have not been able to get the clock back on track since. Please advise on how to set the dial, I have been trying by turning the dial clockwise with no luck. I would prefer not to contact the repair man. If I have left anything out pklease let me know, for I'm just learning how to take care of a priceless time piece.
Ruth, did the clock start gaining after it was cleaned? If so, I would ask the clockmaker to correct this problem. There could be a problem with the escapement skipping teeth. However. with only being 6 minutes a week it probably just needs an adjustment on the pendulum bob. A few minutes a week error is not out of line for a pendulum clock. Remember, these clocks are not as accurate as modern quartz watches, clocks, and electronic VCR', etc. As far as setting the dial, I take it that you mean setting the time by moving the minute hand. Doing this will set the clock at the correct time, but it has nothing to do with the regulation. NORMALLY, the regulation of the clock is done by adjusting the regulating nut at the bottom of the pendulum bob. Tightening it will cause the clock to run slower, loosening it will slow it down. Make sure the bob is initially pulled down and resting firmly on the regulating nut, and also after each adjustment. The general rule is that one complete turn of the regulating nut will change the timing about 1/2 minute a day, which would equate to loosening it one turn for 6 minutes a week. If you have any problems with this, get back with me and we'll do some more checking.
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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