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Expert: Martin Meyer - 12/30/2007


Question
I have a three weight 1982.  It has worked well all this time and now suddenly does not chime.  I moved the Chime/Silent bar several times to no avail.  I "bounced" the weights a little as sometimes they get hung up.  All of a suddent it started ringing and wouldn't stop.  I put it to silent.  Obviously, something needs cleaning - but what and how?

Answer
Hi Ed,
    The original source of your clock's not chiming was probably needing lubrication, or wear in the bearings of the movement. These are both jobs best done by a professional clock repairer.
    As for the continuous chiming, it sounds like you are referring to the musical quarter-hour chime, as opposed to the hour strike. This is a common problem in Hermle movements (the movement maker will probably be stamped on the back plate of the movement). If you have a Hermle movement, the continuous chiming is most likely caused by a broken small part called the chime lock piece or locking cam. This part can be easily replaced by a clock repairer, but its adjustment is very critical, so it is probably best not to attempt it yourself.

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Martin Meyer

Expertise

Can answer repair and service questions for most types of clocks, antique and modern, mechanical and battery. NO watches, appraisals, identification, history, dating, or questions about cuckoo clocks. Website for Modern and Antique Clock Repair: Clockmasteronline.com

Experience

24 Years as owner and repairman of clock repair business, 28 years in the field. Factory Independent Service Center for Howard Miller, Ridgeway and (formerly) Sligh Clocks. Specializing in Fine Antique Longcase (grandfather) clocks. Clock repair Website: (Please remove "Not" from the address - this is a spam protection): www.NotClockmasteronline.com

Organizations
AWCI (American Watchmakers and Clockmakers Institute) and NAWCC (National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors)

Publications
Am also an Expert in the "AllExperts-Antiques-Antique Clocks" Category.

Education/Credentials
Trained by a former Rolex Asia watchmaker, and by a Master Watchmaker/Clockmaker.

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