Repairing the Mechanical Works of a Waterbury Arion Timepiece
In the world of clock restoration, understanding the properties and applications of materials used in clockwork is crucial. A recent project involved a solid oak case clock, made around 1930, that was purchased in January 2016. The clock, lacking glass and bezel at the time, has since been fully restored, with these missing components sourced from a supplier.
The movement of the clock, an 8-day time-only with steel plates, has been the focus of this restoration. However, the author has expressed concerns about steel-plated movements, citing their tendency to attract tarnish and susceptibility to rust. This has led to the decision to replace some components with brass alternatives.
When comparing steel and brass in clockwork, durability and cost-effectiveness are the advantages of steel. Steel components are more durable and less prone to wear and deformation, maintaining their precision over longer periods. Steel also offers higher strength and resistance to corrosion, especially in environments where the clock might be exposed to moisture or other corrosive factors. On the other hand, steel can be harder to machine, and improper coating or plating can lead to rust, compromising the movement's functionality.
Brass, on the other hand, is softer and easier to machine, making it ideal for intricate clockwork components. Brass also has a more traditional appeal and can be polished to a high shine, enhancing the clock's appearance. However, brass is more susceptible to corrosion and oxidation, which can affect the longevity and precision of the clock movement.
In this particular restoration project, the clock's movement is in need of bushing work to extend its life. The mainspring, a replacement and oversized for the movement, was found to be the primary culprit. Its oversizing put an unnecessary load on the gears through the train, leading to wear over time. The mainspring was cleaned and oiled, and new bushings were installed to ensure years of reliable running for the clock.
The pivot on the third wheel, a critical component, was replaced with a 3.5mm bushing with a 1.90mm inside diameter, ensuring a precise fit and reducing wear. The other pivot holes in the movement were filled with 3.00mm OD bushings.
A wobble in the suspension leader of the movement was also addressed by tightening the suspension spring post. The dial of the clock, 8 inches in size, is marked with "Waterbury" and a black and gold pendulum aperture, adding to the clock's vintage charm.
After 5 years, the movement should not have been as worn as it was, indicating an issue with the oversized mainspring. The author advises anyone interested in clock repair to source a mainspring that is correctly sized for the movement they are working on. With these repairs and replacements, the clock is now ticking away, ready to keep time for many more years to come.
The author, in this restoration project, decided to replace some steel clock movement components with brass alternatives due to the steel's tendency to attract tarnish and rust. As the project involves a vintage clock from around 1930, incorporating brass components adds a traditional appeal to the gadget's overall design.
