Expert: William J Perkins - 6/4/2009

Question
I have a Schmechenbecher mantle clock (340-020)2 jewels, that chimes the wrong time on the hour. Example: at eight o'clock it chimes five times. Could you please tell me if this is a costly repair or is there anything I could do to remedy this problem. Thank you very much for your help. Roger

Answer
You can take care of this matter yourself.  I will use your example for corrective instructions.  Since your clock strikes 5 times when the clock says it is eight o'clock. the chime is three hours off.  To correct, stop the clock right after it has struck an hour.  Let us say the clock has, per your example, struck five times but the clock reads eight o'clock.  With one hand grasp the hour hand, as close to its mounting post as you can and turn it back to 5.  At the same time hold the minute hand in its position with the other hand.  It is essential the minute hand does not move.  This simple act will synchronise the strike to the correct time.  Start the clock and set to correct time in normal manner.  This activity is possible because the hour hand is friction fit to its shaft.  Incidentally the movement in your clock was made by Hermle.  This should do you.  Regards WJP