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Clocks, Watches/Mantle Clock Runs Two Weeks, then Stops
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Question
I've discovered that my Alex M. Hayes mantel clock (which I just started using again after years of standing idle) has a peculiar disease. First, please forgive me if I don't get the parts names right. I've tried to do a lot of internet homework, and I have an engineering background, but that may mean nothing here. The clock will run perfectly for up to two weeks, and then stops. I have determined that the problem is due to the crutch rod being bent slowly towards the back plates of the movement, until it finally rubs, and the clock stops . There seems to be some torque on the crutch fork (which is just made of sheet metal) that shouldn't be there. I have sucessfully restored the clock by bending back out the crutch rod. Of course, I know the clock should be serviced, but would servicing eliminate this strange failure?
Stanley, I am not familiar with an Alex M. Hayes clock. How long is this clock designed to run? There are 30-hour, 8-day, 14-day, 31-day (some labeled 30 and 32) clocks. Is yours an Asian 31-day clock? Incidentally, your description and diagnosis of the problem is very good. If any part rubs during the motion, it can very well stop the clock, and it looks like you might have solved the problem. There should be some torque on the crutch, as that is what keeps the pendulum swinging. The oscillation of the pendulum is what then regulates the beat and the timing of the clock. It could be that your clock does need a general servicing, which includes cleaning, inspecting for adjustments and worn parts, resolving them, lubricating and timing the clock. I recommend this be done every 7 to 10 years. In experienced clockmaker would probably detect and correct the problem you had. I would like to see a photo of the movement, showing the area in which you had the problem. If you can send me a clear digital photo, my email address is below.
John Newman
THE VILLAGE CLOCKSMITH
Old Prattvillage
Prattville, Alabama
klokdok@juno.com
(Due to the number of Allexperts questions and
the workload I have at my clock shop, I regret
that I cannot answer personal email questions on a timely basis
other than Allexperts follow ups.)
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| Rating(1-10) | Knowledgeability = 10 | Clarity of Response = 10 | Politeness = 10 |
| Comment | Very thoughtful response. Many thanks, Stan | ||
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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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