Expert: William J Perkins - 1/4/2011

Question
QUESTION: We purchased a Bentima mantel clock and it does chime.  The clock mechanism is Perivale all British clock, Serial # 245752, with the chiming rods diagonal. It did not have the pendulum.  Could you tell me where or which pendulum I could get for the clock?

ANSWER: The pendulum is of course, critical to time keeping ability.  Ergo the correct pendulum must be selected.  I suggest you take your clock to a local clock repair person for inspection.  That person should be able to provide you with, if not the exact pendulum needed, a generic replacement suitable to your clock.  Regards WJP

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks, we did take to a local repair shop and he sold us a pendulum that he thought might work.  I have been adjusting the pendulum trying to perfect the time keeping.  But he said he could not find in his resources a suggested pendulum for the clock.  I thought you might have this information as to the exact pendulum recommended or a supply source to get the exact pendulum.

Answer
The person that sold you the pendulum should be able to find the appropriate pendulum by the simple expedient of trial and error.  As far as I know there is no written source for this information.  Often times clues to the correct pendulum are stamped upon the movements brass backplate.  Other clues can be determined by simply observing the apace available.  I wish I could see the clock, I am confident I could select a workable pendulum in short order, I am surprised your clock repair person doesn't offer to do so.  Regards WJP