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Clocks, Watches/Westclox Big Ben and Baby Ben Wind Up Clocks

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Expert: Martin Meyer - 11/27/2007


Question
Hi Martin:  I have a few Big Ben and Baby Ben wind-up alarm clocks.  They all work (somewhat), but when you try to wind them all up, the mechanisms "kick back" on you.  Is there an easy way to fix this? To give you specifics, I have 2 Big Bens which are a Style 8, and one Baby Ben which is a Style 9.  Thank You, Chuck

Answer
Hi Chuck,
    Sorry for the delay in getting back to you.
    It sounds like you have a broken mainspring. If, when you wind the spring, it winds a little bit then makes a "snap" sound and loses its tension, the mainspring is broken.
    Replacing the mainspring on this clock requires fully disassembling the clock and removing all the gears and other parts. I'm afraid this is a job for a clockmaker.

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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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