Expert: Michael Radi - 5/20/2009

Question
We purchased a Howard Miller #620-250 Wall Clock in March 2007. The clock has a pendulum.  We had replaced the batteries in November, 2008 with no problem.  The clock kept running slow so we replaced the batteries again.  Now with the new batteries, the clock will now not run at all.  We removed the pendulum before inserting the new batteries, then replaced the pendulum, swinging it to get it to start.  Are we missing something...doing something wrong?
Joan

Answer
I don't know of any specific reason your clock movement is acting so badly. Many of these clocks use a Hermle chiming movement. Perhaps you could look at the back of the movement and see a 4 digit number like 2115 or another similar number. While these movements are famous for having a fantastic sound there is an inherent problem with them. The factory tells us that you should use Duracell copper-top batteries because the shape of the battery fits better.
I have had limited success with this but it's worth a try. I have taken these movements apart and found a flaw in the circuit board. By bending the circuit board I could get the chime to start and stop. If new duracell copper top batteries don't help the only option is to replace the movement.
I attached a photo of the Hermle movement so you can see if yours is a match