Expert: Kenneth Saunders - 6/24/2007

Question
QUESTION:  I have a Seth Thomas mantle clock, almost like a bracket clock but it has a moon dial. I bought it used, but it ran perfectly, except the chimes didn't coincide with the hour. I took it to a local clock repair shop, who fixed the chime problem. When I picked the clock up, he said it's a fine clock and he checked it over and there were no other problems. Now, when I wind it, I have to fiddle with the escapement or keep pressure on the hour hand for about ten minutes to get it to run, and it only runs for about two days. (it's an 8 day movement). I took it back to the same fella so he could look at it again, and without looking at it, he said the escapement was bad and it would cost $200.00 to fix it. I'm no expert, but it ran fine when I took it to him, and he said there were no other problems with it. I paid $90.00 for him to fix the chimes, and now he wants 200.00 more. I think the problem is in the spring somewhere. Seems like it's getting bound up when running.
Any suggestions? I don't want to take it to the same shmuck that ruined it, and there is no other local repair shop.
Thanks for your help,
Pat

ANSWER: The chimes not coinciding with the hour is a quick adjustment that I can do while holding my breath! Maybe he "oiled" it as well? Probably screwed it up - sorry you had to have this experience- some bad repair people in the biz. Entire new movements complete are only $125 (my cost)
 On the back plate of the movement there are stamped various pieces of info that would help--can you check and tell me what all is there? Where are you located BTW?

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION:  Hi Ken,
The information stamped on the back plate is: Made in Germany for Seth Thomas, Talley Industries, A206-004. 2 jewels, 7810 unadjusted, and on the door which is opened to access this information is a sticker reading Cat-1218, Name -Thames, and I believe the model number is E 704-005. Thanks for any information you may have. I wound it yesterday afternoon and it is still running, but will probably stop tonight.I am in Steubenville, Ohio. I used to go to your neck of the woods when I was an airline mechanic and had flight priveledges, but thanks to 9-11, I am no longer with the airlines.You live in a beautiful part of the country. Thanks again.
Pat

Answer
Movement was made by Hermle in October of 1978 and is probably worn out now. I would try to get my $90 back! You can get a brand new movement (Hermle 130-020) for $79 plus shipping from Merritts in PA. www.merritts.com --their part # P-1885M - this would be the best deal for you if you think the clock is worth having it work for another 20 years. You can replace it yourself easily.