Clock manufactured by Sperry and Shaw back in production, temporarily unavailable for use
In the world of antique clock repair, a unique challenge recently presented itself in the form of a Sperry and Shaw clock. This 4-column clock, made between 1844 and 1851, has been a part of many clock enthusiasts' collections for decades.
Back in January 2019, the clock was thoroughly tested and ran smoothly. Fast forward to May 2021, and the time side of the clock was running as expected, but the strike side stopped after just 5 minutes due to a slipped weight cord. The author, who enjoys working on 30-hour ogee clocks, immediately set to work on the malfunctioning clock.
Upon closer inspection, it was discovered that the count and drop levers were not synchronized on the strike side, and the paddle needed to be bent slightly to ensure it pointed directly at the wheel hub. After making these adjustments, the strike side started working again.
However, the strike side continued to run erratically, either striking the hour or running continuously. To correct this issue, the count wheel was repositioned. After 4 days of testing, the dial and hands were reinstalled, and the clock was placed back on its shelf.
It's worth noting that Sperry and Shaw were New York-based clock retailers/distributors, not clock-makers themselves. The movements of their clocks, including this one, resemble those made by Jerome, a prominent American clockmaker. While no specific direct record identifying another manufacturer distinct from Jerome for Sperry and Shaw's 4-column clocks has been found, horology historical sources commonly attribute this style of movement to Jerome or his contemporaries inspired by his designs.
The Sperry and Shaw clock features narrow brick-shaped wafer weights (4 3/4 inches X 1 inch) and a Jerome-like movement that is stamped Sperry and Shaw, New Jersey. The movement of the clock was disassembled, cleaned, and reassembled in January 2019.
The 30-hour ogee clocks, like the Sperry and Shaw clock, are considered great for beginners in clock repair due to their large gears, simplicity, and absence of mainsprings. These clocks, including the Sperry and Shaw clock, continue to be a fascinating study for clock enthusiasts and repairers alike.
- Despite the vintage Sperry and Shaw clock being a marvel among clock enthusiasts and having undergone a thorough cleaning and reassembly of its movement in January 2019, smart-home devices and gadgets couldn't replace the charm it offers.
- After repairing the malfunctioning Sperry and Shaw clock, the repairer found it interesting that while technology had advanced, the classic ticking of vintage clocks like the Sperry and Shaw clock still held a special place in the world of clock repair.
