Expert: Harold Williamson - 9/14/2009

Question
I recently inherited a small Linden miniature clock from my aunt.  First, is there ANYWHERE you can direct me to find out more information about the clock?  I do NOT want value. I want to know what year it was made and where it was made.  It looks like it is brass maybe...and it has 5 little red stones, but different shades of red and about 2" x 2".  

Secondly, the clock is not working.  It would break my heart to have anything happen that would permanantly damage it- I would rather leave it completely intact and not working than to have it damaged in the quest to have a working clock.  Is there anywhere in particular you would recommend having it restored to working order?  Should I look for a jeweler or clock repair shop that has a certain certification or that is a member or a particular association?  

Kindest regards,
Jennifer Vollmer


Answer
Good morning Jennifer,

The movement in your clock is a large version of a watch and need to be repaired and researched by a professional clocksmith.  You would be wise to find one that you can drive to and see the shop and know that the repairs will be done on site and not farmed out. No set rules but but use references and go on gut feeling.

A good clocksmith will be able to give you the history after seeing your clock.

The National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors, NAWCC, has a website that list repair shops that subscribe to their standards.  www.nawcc.org

Merritts Antiques website has a list of repair shops.  

References from friends and family also help.

I am in Mebane, NC and would be happy to help but don't know your location.

919-304-7651   Get an estimate and an estimate on the turnaround time for repairs.

Feel free to call me if you have other questions.
Thanks for checking with me.

Harold Williamson