Expert: William J Perkins - 1/25/2011

Question
QUESTION: Hello. I have a new Franz Hermle & John mantle clock. It runs very fast and the instructions are confusing.  On the metal plate behind the clock face it looks like   -  +.  I always understood that if the clock ran fast you would turn the spindle towards the - to slow it down.  However the instructions to this clock says to turn the spindle towards the +.  I have tried both but am still having problems.  It gains about 5 minutes every couple of days.  I would appreciate any advise.  Thank you.

ANSWER: To help you I would need to know what Hermle movement is involved.  You need to copy down, and send to me, all the information that is stamped upon the movements brass backplate.  Regards WJP

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

QUESTION: Hello again.  On the back plate it says -  +
         10
         s/d with a regulating spindle
That is all I can make out on the back plate. The clock chimes on the 1/2 hour and has two holes in front for winding.  Hope that helps

Answer
This does not help me.  I need the information requested in order to determine the type of escapement your clock has installed.  Presuming it has a pulsating wheel with a flat coiled hairspring for power, you would indeed push the lever towards the -.  If that don't do the job for you, then I would suspect the clock is in need of cleaning and fresh lubrication.  If your clock has what is called a floating balance the repair process is much different.  Perhaps you could send me a digital picture of the backplate of the clock movement with focus on the escapement.  Regards WJP