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Clocks, Watches/1978 Hermle movement 451-050 94cm

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Expert: - 9/15/2009


Question
Dear Mr. Newman

Although the movement is old it has not run much over the years.
I can get the middle (time weight)up and working.  Clock keeps time. However I cannot get either chime weights up. Trying these chains meets only with very stiff resistance. Clock has been subject to some abuse such as children pulling on chains and such.  Please let me know if you have any ideas.

Thanks
Paul in Louisiana

Answer
Paul, make sure you are pulling in the correct direction on the chains.  This is very unusual, but if the chime and strike chains won't move when gently pulled up, there could be some previous damage from the abuse you mention.  We secure the chains when transporting, but you did not indicate that this was the case.  I would suggest having an experienced clockmaker look at it.  If I can think of anything else, I'll get back with you.

John Newman
THE VILLAGE CLOCKSMITH
Old Prattvillage
Prattville, Alabama

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John Newman

Expertise

As much as I would like to offer values of clocks, I am not a certified appraiser and will not venture into giving an unresearched guess. There is very little published information on what I consider to be the value of "modern production clocks". Considerations are what the clock originally sold for, the condition of the case and movement, and particularly the area in which you live, the demand and the economy. ALSO, WATCHES ARE NOT MY FIELD. However, I can advise the clock owner on proper maintenance of a clock to keep it running, small corrections and adjustments and how to move a clock without damaging it. I can also advise on obtaining parts for clocks. It helps if you can send any information on the clock movement which is usually found on the back plate of the movement. I have been a clockmaker for about 35 years and was plant engineer in the mid 90's and later operations and engineering consultant at Emperor Clock Company in Fairhope, Alabama. I now have my own clock shop.

Experience

One of my greatest accomplishments was traveling to China to assist a clock factory in building clocks to the standards which we required. With the proper specifications and quality control, some beautiful clock cases were built. The factory people from the wood carvers to the plant manager were very congenial, friendly and I left a lot of wonderful friends when I returned from my trips.

Organizations
Chamber of Commerce Small Business Committee

Publications
Horological Times, a publication of the American Watch and Clockmakers Instute. Collaberated column author, with Photos and ideas for clock movement conversion article.

Education/Credentials
Associate of Science Mechanical Engineering Technology Emperor Introductory Clock Repair (Eventually taught a portion of the class after becoming employee)

Awards and Honors
Small Business of the Quarter (Prattville, Alabama) Leadership Class of 2009 (Autauga County, Alabama)

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