Expert: William J Perkins - 8/7/2009

Question
Hello again, William,

I was told I had too many follow-ups and would have to generate another question.  As you recall, I asked about my Colonial clock striking once on the hour, no matter what the hour.  You asked me for information from the backplate.  Here it is:

PL 78 cm
Western Germany
Jaman (in script)
3 75
60-500 Ke/E (in a box)

Please understand that I was reading in a mirror (backward) and my eyes are not that great with small print any more, so I might have some of this not exactly right.

Anyway, please let me know if I can change out the movement on this clock per your answer to my previous question.

Thanks,

Jim Trepka

Answer
When it comes to clocks precision is everything.  In your instance precise data is essential.  The only piece of information you have provided establishes your clock as requiring a 78cm pendulum.  I know you are frustrated and I would like to help, but the fact remains absolutely correct information is needed.  Here is what I suggest you do.  I suspect you are fully capable of successfully removing the movement from its case and putting it back together again.  If you are secure, in your mind, that you can do this, that is what I want you to do.  Having removed the movement from its case, take it to a professional clock repair person.  Have that person determine the exact replacement movement that will be required.  Should that not be a viable option for you, take a series of digital pictures of the movement and send them to me.  I would need the following views, direct front, back,each side, top and bottom, a 3/4 view of the front and back would be helpful.  Include in each picture a measuring device next to the movement.  This would allow me to make precise measurements.  Be very careful of glare.  Glare shoots down careful examination.  Send the pictures to my personal e-mail address, <flashpowder@hotmail.com>  Use Colonial clock as your subject.  Here's hoping for the best, regards WJP