Clocks, Watches/Dial

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Expert: - 1/11/2010


Question

movement
hi i have a MSU kieninger movement, which moving moon dial fits on it

thanks

Answer
Osvaldo, you would need to contact a supplier and tell them the model number of the clock.  First, the Kieninger MSU has been replaced by the KSU and the mounting for the dial is the same.  When you talk to a supplier you need to tell them the size dial you need to fit the case.  Also, let them know that it has a seconds hand and if you want a moving moon dial.  If you do, you will need a moon dial drive gear to fit on the hour shaft.  You can try the major clock suppliers, Merritts, Timesavers, Black Forest Imports, R %26 M Imports to name a few. They and other suppliers can be Googled.  I'm afraid it might be rather difficult in locating one of these dials from them, as the movements are usually sold to experienced clockmakers that are replacing movements and have an existing dial.  Klockit has one but it is only sold with the movement.  There is one dealer that handles these types of orders.  It is Clocks Unlimited.  Bud will be able to help you.  His number is 1-888-266-8458.

Good luck and let me know what you find.

John Newman
THE VILLAGE CLOCKSMITH
Old Prattvillage
Prattville, Alabama

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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