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Expert: - 9/23/2010


Question
I have a Seth Thomas Mantle Clock with a Hermle Quartz Movement.  Clock hands will not move, however, the clock still chimes.  I am having trouble finding a replacement movement.  The Hermle numbers on the back of movement are 2500-003 then 27-K-02.  This is a Westminster/Ave Maria unit.  It looks like the clock pictured here... http://www.theclockdepot.com/hermle_barrister_II_mantel_clock_22827-072115.html ...But, it says Seth Thomas on faceplate.  Can you help me find a replacement movement or offer suggestions on what might be wrong with the movement I have?

Answer
James, generally, quartz movements are not economically repairable, because of the lack of replacement parts and documentation.  Labor quickly surpasses the cost of a replacement.  The current Hermle quartz chiming movement with the Westminster/Ave Maria melodies is the 2115 series, which has a very good sound. These movements are available through Klockit and Timesavers.  Both these companies can be Googled and have on-line catalogs.  You have to measure the length of the mounting bushing of your unit and order the same (or a little longer, using a shim) to match the thickness of the dial board on which the movement is mounted.  The Klockit number is #12082, style B, for the WM/Ave Maria melodies and is available for a maximum dial thickness of 3/8".  Timesavers number is 23561 for a max. dial thickness of 7/16".  Both companies now have a "Tubular Quad Chime" movement if you like that sound.  I have been using these for replacements quite regularly.  Just make sure the measurements allow for fitting in your case.  You can choose 3 different shaft lengths on this model, depending on the dial thickness.   Klockit numbers are 29615, 30407 and 30408.  Timesavers numbers are 29615, 30407 and 30408.  These do have a pendulum function, but it is not used for your shelf clock. If you have any more questions, get back with me.

John Newman
THE VILLAGE CLOCKSMITH
Old Prattvillage
Prattville, Alabama  

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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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