Expert: Martin Meyer - 11/26/2007

Question
I bought a Ridgeway Mantel Clock Model 550 for $10 at a yard sale.  The mechanism is a Hermle 87 340-020.  The time is off somewhat, but I'm working on adjusting that. However, it does not chime at all.  The locking arm is raised and the switch is set to chime. Each time, it should chime, I hear a slight click. Can you make a suggestion as to what I might do before seeking a repair shop?  Thanks.

Answer
Hi Kim,
    There are three likely possibilities for the cause of this problem.
    First, the somewhat complicated series of parts that control the chiming could be out of adjustment. This adjustment is a job for a professional clock repairer.
    Second, and more likely, the clock may need lubrication. It's possible to do this yourself, but people sometimes find this difficult. In a very simplified version, you must remove the hands, remove the movement from the clock, and apply a tiny drop of clock oil ONLY (No other kind of oil) to each spot where a gear shaft end goes into a hole in the front and back main plates of the movement.
    Third, the movement might be worn out, and you would need to replace it with a whole new movement. Some people find this not too difficult to do themselves, and others prefer to have a clock repairer do it.