Expert: Kenneth Saunders - 2/13/2010

Question
My clock is a mechanical mantle clock. The back of the mechanism reads, "Original Kieninger MADE IN GERMANY nine (9) jewels adjusted".  On the face of the clock is labeled, "Heritage Heirlooms".  There is a sticker inside the clock which reads, "Heritage Heirlooms Ltd. 147 Columbia Ave. Holland, Mich. 49423".  There is a gift presentation plaque inside which indicates it was given as a gift in 1987.  I would guess it was new in 1987.  I just purchased it from the Salvation Army for $75.00.

Problem - Upon being fully wound, it stops a few times the first day, runs fine for about three days, and then returns to stopping a few times every day.  The minute and hour hands do not appear to be catching on each other, and it keeps excellent time when it runs.  What do you think, and if it needs to go for repair, do you think it is worth the cost?  It is also missing the hour number "2".  Any idea where I can purchase a replacement number "2"?

Additional Questions - Which are which for the three winding positions?  How long should this clock run on a complete wind?  Is there a safe way to clean the mechanism?

Thank you in advance for your help.

Ron

Answer
sounds like maintenance issue- unit is worn and or needs cleaning. It might improve with exercise- keep winding about 3/4 full and see. You could pay $200 for an overhaul-- you decide - do not now how fancy the case is or what value it might have (however not working right, it is not worth the $75 maybe?)

without measurements of the numeral or shape etc. I cannot say -would be hard to find.

left is the hour strike power --center is the time --right powers the quarter chimes

8 day movement (ie. one week)

no safe way.