Alterations to the supporting structure for a tall timepiece clock
In a pursuit to create precision and accuracy in clock testing, author and horology enthusiast has embarked on a DIY project to build a test stand for weight driven ogee style clocks.
Having written about test stands in the past, the author decided to construct one instead of purchasing due to cost considerations. The author's previous experience in building a test stand for English bell strike movements has proven valuable in this endeavour.
The new test stand is designed to accommodate weight driven ogee style clocks comfortably, with the capacity to handle two movements and potentially a third. The stand's structure is solid, stable, and attractive, built to last for years.
To eliminate sympathetic vibration when anchoring the homemade test stand, the author emphasizes the importance of creating a stable, rigid, and vibration-dampening setup. This involves anchoring the stand firmly to a heavy, solid base, using isolation materials like rubber pads or cork between the stand and the floor or base, ensuring the stand structure is stiff and robust, and using vibration isolating mounts or brackets when mounting to a wall or larger structure.
While a direct detailed guide for this specific construction or spike conclusion on sympathetic vibration control may not be found, these engineering principles are standard in precision clock mounting and test stands to avoid sympathetic vibration interference.
The author has employed these principles in the construction of the stand, using premium 2x4s and yellow oak for its rails. The rails are not required to be nailed or screwed, adding to the stand's durability and ease of assembly. The stand also features a boxed-in base section for added stability.
The author has already built a test stand for English bell strike movements and has used leftover paint (Espresso) to give the new stand a classy look. The author's recent acquisition of a Scottish tall case clock last year has furthered the need for a test stand for weight driven ogee style clocks.
It's worth noting that a single clock stand may not be suitable for all movement testing purposes due to the variety of types and styles of movements. However, the author's new test stand is a significant step towards accurate testing and maintenance of weight driven ogee style clocks.
[1] Clock Mounting and Test Stands: A Comprehensive Guide [2] Precision Clock Mounting Techniques [3] Horology Lab Best Practices for Clock Test Stands
- The author, in the process of building the test stand for weight driven ogee style clocks, will also incorporate a vintage clock repair section, ensuring the new test stand can accommodate not only the movements of the clocks but also handle repairs using modern technology and traditional techniques.
- To expand on his horological pursuits, the author plans to review and document clock repair methods, especially regarding the maintenance of clock movements in vintage clocks, pairing his DIY test stand solution with instructional content on clock repair in a digital publication named "Vintage Clock Tickers".
