Refreshing and servicing the movement and updating the case of a Gilbert Admiral calendar clock
A cracked center pinion in a No. 3027 Gilbert Admiral clock can be a challenging repair, but with the right tools and some horological experience, it can be tackled successfully. Here's a general guide on how to approach this repair:
Tools and Supplies Needed:
- Jeweler's screwdrivers
- Tweezers
- Loupe or magnifying glass
- Pin vise or small drill
- Clock oil and cleaning solutions
- Replacement pinion (if available) or materials for repair
- Fine files or polishing stones
- Soldering setup (micro soldering iron) or epoxy for repair
- Soft cloth and gloves
Steps to Repair:
- Disassemble the Clock Movement: Carefully remove the clock movement from the case. Document or photograph all steps for easier reassembly. Remove the dial and hands to access the center pinion. Take out the center wheel and pinion assembly carefully.
- Inspect the Pinion: Under magnification, examine the cracked center pinion. Determine if the pinion is repairable or if it needs complete replacement. Check the teeth and arbor for additional damage.
- Remove the Center Pinion from the Wheel: Gently detach the pinion from the center wheel, if possible, without damaging the wheel teeth. Note the position and orientation of the pinion for reassembly.
- Repair Options:
- Soldering Repair: If the crack is clean and accessible, micro soldering with silver solder can fuse the pinion back together. This requires steady hands and experience to avoid warping or overheating the pinion. After soldering, clean and polish the pinion carefully.
- Mechanical Repair: For minor cracks, reinforcing with a thin layer of epoxy designed for metal might be an option, though not ideal for a gear. Ensure the epoxy is fully cured and does not interfere with gear meshing.
- Replacement: If you can source a replacement pinion (from a donor movement or parts supplier), this is the most reliable solution. Swap out the broken pinion for the new one.
- Reassembly:
- If repaired or replaced, reattach the pinion to the center wheel. Lubricate the arbor lightly to ensure smooth operation. Reinstall the center wheel and pinion assembly into the movement.
- Testing:
- Wind and test the clock for proper timekeeping and smooth gear operation. Listen for any unusual grinding or slipping noises that might indicate the repair isn't solid.
Additional Tips:
- Repairing pinions can be risky; consider consulting or hiring a professional clockmaker if you are unsure.
- Keep all small parts organized and handle the movement carefully to avoid further damage.
- Gilbert Admiral clocks, being antique, may have harder-to-find parts; networking with clock repair communities can help source parts or repair tips.
In this specific case, the cracked center pinion was found in a local antique shop. The mainspring of the movement was in very good condition and had plenty of life left. The factory paper dial had the maker's name painted out on the bottom, and the clock was a gallery clock. The clock came with the original pendulum bob and what might be the winding key that came with the clock. The clock was hanging on the wall with no price, and it had Maltese hands that were stripped of bluing and a calendar hand stripped of red paint. The movement was dirty and had not seen servicing in a while.
The clock purchased was a No. 3027 Gilbert, also known as the Admiral. It was traded for another antique clock. The clock in question is a Gilbert Admiral schoolhouse clock. After repair, it is a running Gilbert Admiral 8-day time-only octagonal short drop circa 1901 model 3027, also known as a schoolhouse clock with calendar. The clock might have been manufactured by Gilbert or Sessions.
- The cracked center pinion found in the local antique shop was actually a vintage clock component from a No. 3027 Gilbert Admiral clock, a type of wall clock known for its antiquity.
- In the process of restoring the vintage Gilbert Admiral clock, one may encounter the need to blend technology, such as micro soldering or epoxy designed for metal, with traditional horological techniques to ensure a smooth operation and accurate timekeeping.
