AboutJohn Newman Expertise Because of the variations of clock values throughout the world, and particularly the lack of data on modern production clocks, I regret that I CANNOT DETERMINE CLOCK VALUES. 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 involved in building, repairing and restoring clocks for about 30 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.
Question I have a Howard Miller Model 660-116. It is accurate, and the chimes play at the appropriate time, but they don't play the melodies - I think that the mechanism is just out of sync. How do I reset it (or do I need a pro)?
Answer Eric, I cannot identify most movements by the clock case number. The movement model number is found on the back of the clock movement plate. However, I might be able to help you without it. Do you mean that the clock strikes out the hour but does not chime the melodies? If this is the case there might be a chime selection lever on the dial at the "3" position. Some models allow you to turn the chime to silent and will still strike the hour. One way to tell is to observe the weights. Are they all decending during the week? If so, the chime is disabled and you can start it again by selecting one of the chime positions. Let me know what happens. If it doesn't do it, send me the model of the movement found on the back.
John Newman
THE VILLAGE CLOCKSMITH
Historic Downtown Prattville
Alabama
