Tick-Talk Tuesday is about the letters and comments I have received from readers concerning clock issues, challenges faced, a clock you would profiled or advice on your particular clock concern. For those comments and questions that stump even me, I consult within my clock circles for the best possible answer
ED writes
Good morning,
I recently bought a house and the previous owners left this clock behind. It ticks and chimes and seems to be in working order. I’m wondering if you could tell me more about it like what time period it is from and if it is of any value.
Thank you in advance for your time!
My reply
Hi and thanks for your email.
The Westminster C is an unusual clock because it has 2 gear trains to perform what is usually done with 3 gear trains in most clocks, rare but not unique. In most chiming clocks there are three trains or three winding points, one for time, one for strike and one for the chimes.
This model is based on patent designs filed in 1926 and 1930. Production of the patented movement began in 1927 so, your clock would be around that time and possibly a year or two later. There is a date stamp on the label but I cannot make it out. Could it be 2912, December 1929?
The sale price in 1931 was $29.95, a working man’s weekly salary at the time.
It is a very complicated movement that few repairers enjoy working on, because it is difficult to set it up correctly to have it run reliably. If your clock is running well, you are quite lucky because a repair can be very expensive.
They are uncommon enough that they can still fetch a good price on auction sites ($300-$400 or so).
Hope this helps.
ED write back
This is absolutely fascinating! Thank you for your quick reply. I am now looking at that clock through different eyes.
I appreciate your help, and I hope you have a wonderful weekend.
Antique and Vintage Clocks 