Solar mantel clock repair encountering minor setbacks, specifically a few issues
In a recent restoration project, a charming German time and strike mantel clock, originally sold under the Solar name in Canada during the 1960s, underwent a meticulous cleaning and touch-up process. This vintage clock, boasting a 6'' dial and a dark walnut case, remains in its original condition, except for a touched-up decorator piece under the dial.
The clock's movement, a type 141 from Hermle, features a recoil escapement and a 11cm pendulum, beating at 200.8 beats per minute. Despite the passage of time, the movement was in very good condition with minimal wear. The half-hour strike on a bell of the mantel clock is loud enough to be heard across the house, adding to its antique charm.
During the cleaning and touch-up process, the clock was not disassembled. However, the movement required two bushings, the star wheel, backplate, and the lower drive wheel rear plate, all quite worn. To address this, a brass Bergeon bushing was used to replace the oval tension spring washer, but no other parts were replaced. This bushing functions as a precise, durable replacement for a worn or missing brass washer, serving as a new bearing surface for the pivot or arbor.
The brass Bergeon bushing offers several advantages over a simple washer. It provides a clean, consistent bore precisely sized to the pivot diameter, stabilizing the pivot and preventing wobble. Its brass construction offers good wear resistance and compatibility with the clock's metal components. This traditional horological repair method ensures the clock movement operates smoothly and maintains correct gear alignment.
Although the clock was not tested or reassembled after the cleaning and touch-up, the next step in its restoration is the reassembly and testing phase. The clock, measuring approximately 13" wide by 7" high by 4" deep, is a small yet mighty addition to any home. Its history and the care taken in its restoration make it a cherished piece for any clock enthusiast.
[1] Brass Bergeon Bushings: A Traditional Horological Repair Method [2] Bergeon Bushing Replacement in Clock Movements
[1] In the world of vintage clocks, a brass Bergeon bushing can be a valuable tool for traditional horological repairs, providing a precise, durable replacement for worn or missing washers and ensuring the clock movement operates smoothly.
[2] The integration of smart-home devices and gadgets may not be typical in the restoration of vintage clocks, but one could envision a future where solar-powered smart-home devices, such as vintage clocks with remote control capabilities, interact seamlessly with other smart-home devices, blending the charm of vintage clocks with the convenience of modern technology.
