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 we recently bought a 86 Franz Hermle Clock
inside it says Franz Hermle No OJewels
351-030AH 94cm/66.00
What i need to know is how to get it to keep time.
Thank You
Answer Gayle, I take it that you want to adjust the rate of the clock because it is running too fast or too slow. Your clock movement is a spring-wound grandmother movement with a 94cm pendulum. There is a small round rating nut just under the pendulum bob. The bob should be seated on the rating nut at all times, so check after making your adjustments. To correct the error, stop the pendulum. Then adjust the rating nut. It is turned (tightened) to move the pendulum bob up and will increase the rate. It would be turned (loosened) to move the pendulum bob down and decrease the rate. Generally on floor clocks, turning the nut one complete turn will change the rate 1/2 minute a day. So if it is running 5 minutes a day slow, the nut should be tightened 10 turns. Each time the nut is adjusted, make sure the bob is seated firmly on the nut or the adjustment will not be effective. This applies usually when the nut is loosened. After the adjustment, reset the time and start the clock. Let it run for 24 hours and check it. If it is still running slow, continue tightening the nut according to the runle on turns above. If you over adjust it will run too fast and you will have to back the nut down a little. This will take a few tries, but you will finally find a good rate. Good luck and if you have any more questions, get back with me.
John Newman
THE VILLAGE CLOCKSMITH
Historic Downtown Prattville
Alabama
