Expert: Martin Meyer - 3/20/2009

Question
One of our vertical steel shafts on which a hammer for one of the clock's chimes is mounted has broken.  Where can I find replacement parts?  Unfortunately, I do not know the manufacturer of the clock and can find no identifying marks.  The clock was given to my husband's great grandfather in 1929 and it has a mercury pendulum.  Any insight on where to find parts or to identify the clock is appreciated.

Answer
Hi Michele,

I'm somewhat limited because I have no idea what movement, or even type of movement, is in your clock. However, it would be exceptionally rare for any parts to be available for a clock of this age. Clockmakers routinely make parts as needed when repairing such clocks. I'm almost certain that a qualified clock repairer would be able to make this repair without difficulty.

The only chance of identifying the movement would be to look for any numbers or information stamped on the back plate of the movement. Many clocks from this period have no markings, or possibly just a serial number. Identification of such movements is usually not possible. The clock itself has the same problems. If there is no maker's name on the dial, or identification plate elsewhere on or in the case, it is unlikely that you will be able to identify a maker.  http://www.clockmasteronline.com