Clocks, Watches/Missing Parts

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Expert: - 12/14/2011


Question
Hi,

I rescued a Howard Miller 610-707 clock from a trash pile.  It looks like it is in good condition from what I can tell. It is missing the pendulum and the weights.  I need to know about how much it would be to get the replacement parts. I also am looking for a owners manual.  I am not having good luck finding anyone to help. Also I am wondering about how much this clock would be worth. I would appreciate any info you could provide would be great.

Thanks,
Heidi

Answer
Hi, Heidi.  Looks like you found a treasure.  I will have to know some more information about the clock, as sometimes Howard Miller would use different types of movements in the same model of the clock.  First, look on the back movement plate and give me all the information you can find on it.  If you cannot access it from a removable back panel of the clock, sometimes a flashlight and mirror are needed.  From that I can determine the configuration (length, etc) of the pendulum and size and weight of the weights.  I have different styles of the pendulum and weights, and I can also give you some suppliers that will have these components.  When selecting these parts, it is usually required that you order the weight shells separately, so the different weight requirements can be met for the particular movement and pendulum  configurations.  If you will reply to my shop email address, we can go into further detail on what you need.  And I will have to say that there could be some issues with the movement that would require additional work.  I do have manuals that generally address a clock like yours, even though it might not be the same manufacturer or model.  Most clocks of this type follow the same descriptions, set up and maintenance.  Let me know and we'll see if we can't get it going for you.

John Newman
The Village Clocksmith
Old Prattvillage
Prattville, Alabama

klokdok@juno.com

Note concerning questions not related to Allexperts:  Because of my commitment to answering Allexperts questions within a prescribed time limit and the large backlog of clock work at my shop, I regret that I cannot answer personal email questions on a timely basis, other than Allexperts follow up questions.  I will try to answer these emails as soon as I can. Thank you for your patience.  

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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