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Clocks, Watches/verichron clock balls won't turn
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Question
QUESTION: I have a sentimental verichron clock with glass cover and four balls on a stem that used to twist one way and then another . Under the clock there is a battery and mechanism that I took apart and it appears a spiral wire spring (?) has come off . I would like to know if I can replace the whole mechanism that turns the balls - as the time and Westminster chime works fine . many thanks
ANSWER: Peter, the rotary motors are available, but there are different types. Is it possible for you to send me a clear photos: one with the rotary pendulum installed, one of the base with it removed and one of the rotary movement from the bottom? I might have the type you need, and I will also give you the names of some suppliers. My shop email address is below.
John Newman
THE VILLAGE CLOCKSMITH
Old Prattvillage
Prattville, Alabama
klokdok@juno.com
Note: Because of the number of Allexpert questions and follow ups,
and the excessive backlog in my shop, I regret that I can only answer
the Allexperts related questions in a timely manner.
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: please find photos requested - front and bottom of clock . please be advised behind the face of the clock there is a mechanism which runs the westminster chimes that works fine and the clock works fine - only issue is the balls don't turn
)
Peter, I had suggested you send the photos to my shop email address, as Allexperts allows only one photo and it is rather small. It is easier for me to see the details if you send them to me. It also frees up the Allexperts question queue for other questions, as they are limited.
John Newman
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Answers by Expert:
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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