Expert: Michael Radi - 3/26/2009

Question
Hi,

I have a Waltham 31 day chime wall clock that I purchased in the early 90's.  Recently when I was winding the chime it made this loud popping sound and the key flew out of my hand. The clock still winds and keeps time just fine, but the winder for the chime just turns loosely, so the chime no longer works.  A local clock repairman (actually, the only repairman within 100 miles)told me a small spring had broken and that he could replace it in just a few minutes.  However, he said the cost would be approximately $80 - $100.  Not only can I not afford that, but that seems really high for a single spring and a few minutes of work.  Is there any way I can order this spring - and would I be able to replace the spring myself?  I love this clock and really miss the chime.

Thanks so much for your time.

Answer
The difficulty of repair depends on what spring broke. If the key turns infinitely and the mainspring never winds the mainspring is probably broken. If this is the case, the repair will take between 30 minutes and 2 hours depending on the movement design, skill of the repairman and a little luck that things go as planned. The cost of the mainspring is about $12.00 wholesale.
If the key springs back after you turn it about 1/2 turn the problem is probably the clickspring. This is usually an easier repair and less expensive.
Things to consider: These clocks have a very heavy mainspring. When the mainspring breaks or clickspring fails there is a chance that other items inside the movement were damaged. The force of the power being released all at once can bend a gear shaft or shear the teeth off of a gear. This is very common. I hope the repairman looked the movement over really well before giving you an estimate.
To sum it up: $80-$100 might be high but could be reasonable depending on the actual work to be done. However, you should decide if the clock is worth it to you. These are not expensive clocks so most of the value will be sentimental.
Michael
norkro.com