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Clocks, Watches/Pearl grandfather clock

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Expert: - 11/28/2011


Question
I purchased a Pearl grandfather clock at an estate sale. I did find out by the numbers on the movement that the movement itself was made in 2002-2003 but a few sites told me that by the look of the photos I submitted, the clock was much older than that and the movement was probably a replacement. Do you know of any sites that might have comprehensive photo list of Pearl grandfather clocks that have been made over the years. I would love to at least have the model/type of clock this is. Thank you

Answer
Jeff, there is very little available information or manuals still remaining on the Pearl clocks.  I do not have any in my resource material.  You might try Googling Pearl Clocks.  I agree that a 2002 movement is probably a replacement.  I believe Pearl ceased making clocks in the 1980's or 1990's.

John Newman
THE VILLAGE CLOCKSMITH
Old Prattvillage
Prattville, Alabama  

Clocks, Watches

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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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