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Question
I have my grandmothers mantel clock and it keeps great time however the hour chime is always 2 chimes behind. It chimes every 15 minutes. There is a key with 3 places to wind it on the front of the clock. I don't know what the difference is between the left and the right place to wind it. The centre one does the clock itself. On the back it has the number 340-020 with "FHS" stamped above a clock showing the time 7:22 stamped beneath it. It also has Germany stamped on it. The only other stamp on it is the letter "C" above the FHS. If was working properly when I first got it 3 months ago and I hope I haven't wound it too tight or maybe I shouldn't be using the left and right holes to wind?? Can you help me? Thanks in advance for any suggestions you could give me.
Jopyce, I think you might mean it is striking two hours behind. Turn the minute hand through the quarters, allowing each to complete the chime. When it gets to the hour, chimes and strikes, count the number of strikes. Carefully slip the hour hand to the the hour that just struck. Then set the clock to the correct time using the minute hand. That should do it. If the chimes are not in sync after that, they should correct within one and possibly two hours. The left winder is for the strike, the center for the time and the right for the chime. I hope this helps. . If not get back with me
John Newman
THE VILLAGE CLOCKSMITH
Old Prattvillage
Prattville, Alabama
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Answers by Expert:
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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