Arthur Pequegnat Bedford – bringing a handsome mantel clock back to life – Part II

Restored Athur Pequegnat Bedford mantel clock

This is Part II of a two part series in which I describe the final finishing of an Arthur Pequegnat Bedford clock case.

In Part I I described the challenges of repairing the clock case and the minor repairs to the movement.

In the first part of the series I also described how I acquired this Arthur Pequegnat mantel/shelf clock during my travels to Quebec this spring.

The red oak veneered clock is complete with pendulum bob, a good label on the inside back of the access panel, coil gong and of course, the signature time and strike Arthur Pequegnat movement with nickel-plated steel plates.

Nickle-plated plates with brass bushings

It is the “Bedford” model. Online research informs me that two Bedford models were produced. This one, which is the later version, measures 9 ¾ inches high by 8 ¾ inches wide by 5 ½ inches deep. It has a silvered 6 inch dial with Arabic numerals with no Pequegnat inscription on the bottom of the dial face, spade hands surrounded by a thick brass bezel and concave base moulding. It has a passing ½ hour strike on a coiled gong.

The earlier model has a 5 inch enameled dial with stylized Arabic numerals and Pequegnat inscription on the dial face, spade hands, oak veneered case, a thinner brass bezel and convex base moulding. The case measurements are identical. The time and strike movement differs from the later model by having a ½ hour passing strike on a bell.

If the dial is a replacement, it is a Pequegnat and someone took the trouble to install larger (and correct) spade hands

I initially thought that the larger dial might make this a one-of clock but after working on the case I am inclined to believe that the dial might be a replacement. I observed two sets of screw holes, one for the larger dial and one presumably for a smaller one. A factory switch or perhaps a clock-maker replaced the dial at a later time for whatever reason. After looking at a photo of the Bedford taken at the Canadian Clock Museum in Deep River, Ontario (Canada) you can easily see the smaller dial and thinner bezel.

Bedford clock on display at the Canadian Clock Museum

Arthur Pequegnat Bedford mantel clock, assembled, cleaned and working but before case refinishing

I do not think the larger dial overpowers the look of the clock, in fact, it gives it a more contemporary presence. If the dial is a replacement, it is a Pequegnat and someone took the trouble to install correctly sized spade hands. Unfortunately, the previous owner is unaware of the difference.

The task of clamping and gluing the case took several days as each section of the case required attention. And now to the final finish.

Before the case restoration. Yes, the clock was in sad shape.

Dirty case — Very dirty case with years of grime and no grain visible

After giving the case a good cleaning I applied one thin coat of Minwax red oak stain to hide the bare areas and rough edges. I let the stain sit for 5 minutes and wiped off the excess with a cotton cloth. I allowed the case to thoroughly dry for 24 hours before the first sanding. For the final finish I chose Minwax PolyWipe for two reasons, one, it is simple to apply since it is easily wiped on and secondly, I wanted to avoid the amber tone of a lacquer which might result in concealing the grain. I applied six coats of PolyWipe and used 400 grit emery paper between each coat.

After cleaning, sanding and two coats of PolyWipe this is the result.

I am pleased that the grain came up very nicely, reminding me of what it must have looked like many years ago.

Finished clock, after 6 coats of PolyWipe

After six thin coats of PolyWipe the result is a revitalized finish that is durable, attractive and will last for years.

The brass door has me puzzled. What I thought was a broken hinge was actually folded into the bezel and soldered.

7/8 inch hinge is soldered back into the bezel

Why? I am reluctant to remove the solder because I risk breaking the glass by bending the retaining tabs. They are in very tight. As it stands the glass door will friction fit onto the dial bezel. Not the best but it will do for now. I will give it a second look, perhaps I can de-solder that hinge without removing the glass.

A project that is well worth the time and effort. It is always satisfying saving an old clock and bringing it back to life.

July 29, 2018

Arthur Pequegnat Bedford – bringing a handsome mantel clock back to life – Part I

I acquired an Arthur Pequegnat mantel/shelf clock during my travels to Quebec this spring. The red oak veneered clock is complete with original hands, pendulum bob, a good label on the inside back of the access panel, coil gong and of course, the signature time and strike Arthur Pequegnat movement with nickel-plated steel plates.

Signature Pequegnat nickle-plated steel plates

It is known as the “Bedford” model. Online research tells me that two Bedford models were produced. This one, which I believe is the later edition, measures 9 ¾ inches high by 8 ¾ inches wide by 5 ½ inches deep. It has a silvered 6 inch dial with Arabic numerals with no Pequegnat inscription on the bottom of the dial face, spade hands surrounded by a thick brass bezel and concave base moulding. It has a passing ½ hour strike on a coiled gong. The earlier model has a 5 inch enameled dial with more stylized Arabic numerals and Pequegnat inscription on the dial face, spade hands, oak veneered case, a thinner brass bezel and convex base moulding. The case measurements are identical. The time and strike movement differs from the later model by having a ½ hour passing strike on a bell.

There is a good label on the inside of the access door which says, “Bedford, eight-day mantel clock, The Arthur Pequegnat Clock Co., Kitchener, Ontario, Canada”.

The movement is not marked. Though many Arthur Pequegnat movements were stamped with the maker’s mark it is not unusual to find one without one. This edition was likely manufactured in the Kitchener, Ontario (Canada) plant between 1925 and 1930.

The only issue with the movement is the time side mainspring function which, as the previous owner explained, could not be wound with a key. Damaged top veneer and split-open side trim pieces tell me that the clock had accidentally fallen. The impact point appears to be the very top front of the clock. As a result of the impact the front panel had separated from the main part of the case, leaving a gap of about 1/8^th of an inch. It also had a broken access door catch.

Damaged veneer sustained during a fall, veneer was later pushed back in place

At first I focused my attention on the movement and why the time side mainspring would not wind. It was, as I suspected, a missing click spring. The click is a pawl which engages the ratchet wheel to hold the power of the mainspring or the weight. It is moveable and connected to the mainspring by means of a rivet. The click spring is a piece of steel or brass wire which is connected to the click and seats the click in the ratchet wheel.

I had a supply of steel click springs and fashioned one to fit the click. The click, rivet and the ratchet wheel were in otherwise good condition. While the mainsprings was restrained with clamps I postioned the click spring in place applying a little solder to ensure that it remained fixed. An older similar repair occurred on the strike side with solder holding that click in place. A weak point of the movement, perhaps.

A little solder to keep the click spring in place

I inspected the movement for wear and discovered that it had been serviced previously. The solder on the strike side click was certainly a clue but I also noticed that some bushings had been replaced, not unusual given the age of the clock. Brass bushings were punched into the steel plates at the factory. I could see that newer bushings were installed in at least three locations.

There is no lateral movement in the gears as such lateral movement would indicate bushing or pivot wear. There is no evidence of ovalized, enlarged or mis-shapen bushing holes and the gears are meshing well. The movement is clean and free of dirt and debris and I do not feel that a full cleaning is warranted at this point. There is no excess blackened oil; the oil in the bushing holes had simply dried up. I applied clock oil to the bushings, wound both mainsprings and after days of running the movement is keeping excellent time.

With the movement out of the case, repaired and in the testing phase, I focused next on the condition of the oak veneered case. Many of the joints had separated due to the impact I mentioned earlier. Hide glue would have been used originally and could be used for case repair. I have medium strength pearl hide glue, not strong enough for this application. High strength is required to bring the trim pieces together to ensure a good long-lasting and tight fit. This is one of those occasions when a modern glue is an acceptable alternative. Yellow carpenters glue has a bonding power of two tons and I chose this type of glue for the repairs.

Each section had to be clamped for 24 hours and only one section could be worked on at a time. The result is a very time-consuming and complicated process lasting several days.

I used three clamps for one repair. Because the impact point was at the very top I had to push the sides in with a clamp while at the same time bring the front panel into the main part of the case using two clamps adjacent to each other. You can see the clamping method I employed in the next photo.

Using three clamps to bring the sides together and the front section into the case

The side base trim pieces were also split open and had to be clamped in place as you can see in the next photo.

Bringing the sides of the case together resulted in raising the damaged veneer, consequently several small pieces of top veneer had to be pushed back into place. Using carpenters glue combined with an “elaborate” weight system I went about with the repair. Using a toothpick I applied carpenters glue under the veneer pieces, wiped off the excess with a wet cloth and used a block with a hole drilled to accommodate a toothpick employing enough pressure to push the small veneer pieces into place. It looks odd but it works.

Toothpick and wood piece to push the veneer in

A degreaser was used to strip years of blackened dirt/grease/grime on the case and once cleaned the original grain in the red oak veneer is now exposed to its former beauty. The case will either need a layer or two of lacquer or a more modern finish such as PolyWipe. I will cover this aspect of the restoration/repair in Part II.

Using Brasso I cleaned up years of tarnish on the brass bezel giving it a new life. I also polished the arbour grommets. The silvered dial face is in very good condition and I left that as-is.

I fashioned a new door catch out of a worn Sessions click.

A new door catch made from a worn Sessions click — Broken door catch was repaired using an old worn Sessions click

With the movement repaired and the successful clamping and gluing of the case the next phase is the final finishing. I am pleased that I am inching closer to bringing this clock back to life and can add it to my modest collection of Arthur Pequegnat clocks.

Stay tuned for Part II on July 30th.

July 17, 2018

The Arthur Pequegnat Clock Company – a brief history

The time and strike with signature nickle-plated steel plates

Most knowledgeable clock enthusiasts in Canada instantly recognize the Arthur Pequegnat Clock Company as one of Canada’s premier clock companies. Although the company went out of business over 75 years ago the Arthur Pequegnat name is still respected as a quality clock-maker.

The Arthur Pequegnat Clock Company had an illustrious albeit short life. Watchmaker Arthur Pequegnat was born in Switzerland in 1851. Arthur immigrated to Berlin, Ontario Canada in 1874 with his wife, parents, brothers and sisters; a grand total of 18 family members.

Tall case clocks made by Arthur Pequegnat

By the late 1870’s Arthur was operating a jewelry store and watch repair in Southern Ontario. By the middle 1880’s Arthur and his brother Paul were operating a shop in Berlin, Ontario (now Kitchener). After about ten years the brothers went their own way, both operating successful jewelry shops in Southern Ontario.

In 1897 Arthur expanded his Berlin Jewelry shop to include the manufacture of bicycles. However, by 1904, with the decrease in the demand for bicycles, Arthur began to re-focus on the clock industry, by manufacturing his own clock movements at his Berlin Bicycle Manufacturing plant. At first the wooden clock cases were made by local furniture makers, however in time he manufactured his own clock cases.

The Regulator #1, Pequegnats most accurate clock

Berlin, Ontario was re-named Kitchener Ontario in 1916, due to anti-German backlash during WW I. This becomes a useful tool when dating Pequegnat clocks as labels, movements or dials marked “Berlin” date the clock to 1916 or earlier and those marked “Kitchener” are 1916 or later. Having said that, many clocks had a long production life and it is difficult to date any Arthur Pequegnat clock precisely.

The company closed it doors in 1941. Although brass was in short supply as a result of the war effort, sagging sales reflected the demand for modern electric clocks.

Yes, a brief history but as any Canadian clock collector knows Arthur Pequegnat is still a “Big” name in the clock business.

July 8, 2018

The Macdonald Museum – if you are a clock fan, or even if you are not, this small museum may surprise you

Macdonald Museum in Middleton Nova Scotia

I have been to Middleton, Nova Scotia many times. I have even passed the Macdonald Consolidated School where the clock museum is located without realizing what treasures lay inside. The clock museum represents a small section of the museum, the remainder of which is dedicated to the history of the area.

In the Spring of 2018 my wife and I set off on one of our many mini staycations. On my agenda was a visit to this museum and I was not disappointed.

MacDonald Museum main exhibit area — Macdonald Museum main clock exhibit area

Tallcase clock — Holbeck made tall-case clock

It certainly ranks as the best exhibit in Atlantic Canada

Off highway 1 on School Street, Middleton, Nova Scotia stands the Macdonald museum. I had some expectations because I had been to two well respected clock museums, the NAWCC museum in Columbia PA. and the Canadian Clock Museum in Deep River, Ontario. Though not on the same scale as these two, it certainly ranks as the best exhibit in Atlantic Canada.

According to the web site

The Annapolis Valley Macdonald Museum is home to the Nova Scotia Museum’s collection of over 150 antique clocks and watches. This permanent exhibit showcases items collected by the late Norman Phinney and was one of the primary reasons for establishing the Macdonald Museum. Many of the clocks are in working condition. There are a wide variety of clocks and watches on display, with some dating back to the late 17th century. Anyone interested in clocks would do well to see this exhibit – one of the best in Eastern Canada.

The museum is well laid out with enough information on each of the clocks on display to satisfy the general public and clock enthusiasts alike. Each display highlights its significance as an important development in horological history. We were alone as we walked though the main exhibit area and an adjacent room which contained a fascinating old clock-maker’s shop and a well laid out and informative interactive display on how mechanical clocks work.

At least one example from the Baird Clock Co. of Montreal and five examples from the Arthur Pequegnat Clock Co. of Berlin (now Kitchener) Ontario were on display including the Arthur Pequegnat Regulator #1, that the company once advertised as “The finest clock made in America”.

None of the clocks were running, however. Though the clocks appeared to be in excellent condition, the sound of ticking clocks make for a more authentic experience. All other clock museums make a practice of running some clocks on a rotating basis at any given time.

At the entrance to the clock collection there is a simple plaque dedicated to Norman D. Phinney. Learning more about Norman D. Phinney, his contribution to the Macdonald Museum and the story of how the museum received his clock collection would add to the experience.

If you are a clock fan or even if you only have a casual interest in the world of horology, this small clock museum may surprise you

Though perhaps not within the scope of Phinney’s original collection, examples from the Canada Clock Co. and the Hamilton Clock Co. or more peddlers clocks from Nova Scotia and New Brunswick would have provided an enhanced Canadian horological perspective.

However, these are minor quibbles and should not detract you from appreciating the high quality of the exhibits which contained British, American, French and Canadian examples or the many styles that included Pillar and Scroll, tall-case, shelf, beehive, steeple, drop octagons, mantel, alarm clocks and Ogee clocks, all of which were well represented.

If you are a clock fan or even if you only have a casual interest in the world of horology, this small clock museum may surprise you.

Oh, and while there, visit the rest of this fascinating museum.

June 24, 2018

Arthur Pequegnat Bedford mantel clock – an interesting find

As regular readers know I am a fan of Arthur Pequegnat clocks not just because they were made in Kitchener, Ontario, Canada but they are attractive, well made and hold their value well (in Canada!).

Eddy's photo of the clock — Eddy’s photo of the clock

I have had clocks given to me in the past but this was a rather unusual situation. As readers know I publish at least seven or eight articles a month in order to provide interesting content on all aspects of mechanical clocks. I publish a regular feature called Tick Talk Tuesday in which I profile the mail I receive from readers. The mail is private email and not comments after a blog article. I receive many emails you will not find on my blog. Some people prefer writing to me privately and that is perfectly fine.

I received one such email some time ago from Eddy who lives in the Quebec City area (Province of Quebec, Canada). Eddy was researching my blog and discovered that I admired and collected Canadian-made Arthur Pequegnat clocks. He wondered if I would have an Arthur Pequegnat clock added to my collection.

Because it was an Arthur Pequegnat I was immediately interested but I did not expect a reply. To my surprise Eddy answered with five photos of the clock from various angles. It was a mantel clock in pretty rough shape and after seeing his photos I was still curious even though it likely required a lot of work to restore it.

In his email Eddy explained that he was having serious health issues and was taking stock of his life. He had a number of antique and vintage items that his father and grandfather had left him and he felt they should be passed on to someone who would appreciate having them. As Eddy explained, “My father had that clock as a trade against work done for people he helps with their house and lawn chores. He gave it to me since he’s got too many, just like my grand-father did. He was okay with me parting with it.”

I wrote back and told him that a meeting was indeed possible. We would be passing through the Quebec City area in the next few days on our way to our cottage in Quebec to open it up for the summer. We (my wife and I) had even planned to stay in that area for the night. We could stop by to have a look at the clock. Eddy then provided me with his address and telephone number. A meeting day and time was set up.

After nine hours of driving we arrived at his door. He invited us in and we spent a very pleasant two hours getting to know each other, discussing my collection of clocks, talking about the clock in question, his fathers hobby of searching out old antiques and finally, matters related to his struggle with a serious illness.

I was a little confused. Was he was actually giving me the clock or did he expect money in return so I decided to ask him straight out. No, he said, you can have it. he then brought out three other clocks to the kitchen table, a cottage clock, a steeple clock and a swinger. He asked me if I wanted those as well and I thanked him for the offer but declined. While they were very nice clocks I felt awkward taking all of them for nothing. So, we left with just one clock.

We walked out the door with clock in hand and for the next hour of our drive we talked about Eddy and his gift of an Arthur Pequegnat clock.

The clock was complete with original hands, pendulum bob, coil gong and of course, the signature Arthur Pequegnat movement with nickel-plated steel plates. The only visible sign of an issue with the movement was the time side mainspring which, as Eddy explained, could not be wound with a key. Damaged veneer, side trim pieces splitting open was clear evidence that at some point the clock had been dropped or fallen hard. The impact point was the very top of the clock. Yes, it was in rough shape!

A challenge to repair? Yes, but I graciously accepted the clock knowing that I would have to spend several hours putting it right.

The sides and front were coming apart — Both sides and the trim front were coming apart

Thanks to Eddy I am now the new owner of an Arthur Pequegnat, Bedford model that I will add to my collection of four other Pequegnat clocks. In a later post I will detail the repairs to this fine Canadian made clock.

Eddy suggested that instead of offering him money that we donate to a charity and so a cheque went to the Canadian Cancer Society. I have never given names to my clocks but this one will always be called Eddy in honour of a individual who felt strongly that a family treasure should go to an appreciative owner.

June 5, 2018

Arthur Pequegnat Simcoe mantel clock

Canadian clock collectors are passionate about Arthur Pequegnat clocks. In private sales and online for-sale sites most sellers are knowledgeable enough to know that they are very desirable. A Pequegnat will sell for many times more than a comparable mantel clock, that is, in Canada.

Arthur Pequegnat Simcoe mantel clock — Arthur Pequegnat Simcoe model mantel clock

The Arthur Pequegnat clock company had an illustrious albeit short history

The Simcoe is my fourth Arthur Pequegnat clock. It is very similar in dimensions and style to the Jewel. Whereas the Jewel is basically a unadorned box the Simcoe has a piecrust dial bezel, claw feet on each corner and lions head handles on each side. It has a coil gong for the hour strike and a bell for the half-hour passing strike.

To collectors it is referred to as a”Berlin” clock. Although it is impossible to date Pequegnat clocks precisely the name Berlin distinguishes clocks made before 1917 and those made after and up to 1941 when the factory finally shut its doors. Clocks made prior to 1917 were inscribed “Berlin”, Ontario on the dial face since Kitchener was known as Berlin until midway through World War I. From 1854 until 1912 it was the town of Berlin and City of Berlin from 1912 until 1916. Because the name Berlin had a negative association with the war against Germany the city administration chose the name Kitchener. Kitchener is the present seat of the Regional Municipality of Waterloo, Ontario (Canada).

Time and strike movement with steel plates, a common feature with Pequegnat clocks

The Arthur Pequegnat clock company had an illustrious albeit short history. Arthur Pequegnat, a watchmaker by training, was born in Switzerland in 1851. Arthur immigrated to Berlin, Ontario Canada in 1874 with his wife, parents, brothers and sisters; a grand total of 18 family members.

Arthur Pequegnat clocks such as a simple mantel clock you see here can command hundred of dollars in Canada

By the late 1870’s Arthur was operating a jewelry store and watch repair in Southern Ontario. By the middle 1880’s Arthur and his brother Paul were operating a shop in Berlin, Ontario. After ten years the brothers went their separate ways, both operating successful jewelry shops in Southern Ontario.

In 1897 Arthur expanded his Berlin jewelry shop to include the manufacture of Bicycles. However, by 1904, with the decrease in the demand for Bicycles, Arthur began to re-focus on the clock industry, by manufacturing his own clock movements at his Berlin Bicycle Manufacturing plant. Arthur obviously visualized a profit in clock making as many clocks at the time were imported from the United States. At first the wooden clock cases were made by local furniture makers, however in time he manufactured his own clock cases. Although the Arthur Pequegnat Clock Company was widely regarded as the only true Canadian clock company, lesser known companies such as the Hamilton Clock Company and the Canada Clock Company, though not as successful, predated it.

The Simcoe is a relatively nondescript clock. I passed by it in the antique store without realizing that it was a Pequegnat. My wife spotted it and I returned to take a second look. Sure enough, a Pequegnat!

The yellow oak case is in very good condition with one or two small scratches and a chip just above the top of the bezel. The dial pan has had an ugly repair, there are two brass tabs at 12 o’clock and 6 o’clock protruding though the front of the dial.

The dial face has some crackling but is otherwise in good condition. The piecrust bezel is in very nice shape as are the claw feet and lions heads.

The movement looks very clean with little evidence of wear. There is an inscription on the back dated Jan 10, 1970. It was likely serviced on that date. In any event it does not appear to have had much running since then. Unfortunately, there is no label.

The movement was taken out of its case, inspected for wear and found to be in very good condition. The movement was oiled, returned it to its case, the beat was set and it is running strongly. The clock will be inspected in one years time to determine if servicing is required.

February 9, 2018

Tick Talk Tuesday #12 – Arthur Pequegnat Nelson hall clock

Tick-Talk Tuesday is about the letters and comments I have received from you, the reader, concerning your clock, issues you might have had and challenges you face and my responses to your questions with advice on your particular clock concern and of course, my general comments. For those comments and questions that stump even me, I consult within my clock circle for the best possible answer.

NV writes about her Arthur Pequegnat Nelson hall (tall-case) clock.

“I have an antique, oak ‘hall’ clock that’s been handed down in my family. I read in an article you wrote that you collect them.

This clock was in my home growing up and my grandmother, now 96, reminds me of its history and knows whose home it was originally from in our family.(my grandfather’s grandparents, I believe). I’ve started to look into the history of these clocks. I’m interested to know what your thoughts are if you are interested in sharing them.

I can tell you that it’s in beautiful condition, however although it had always worked and sounded well (still sounds beautiful) when it was shipped here to BC in the 90s, it was never restarted and the finial became dislodged, but it is not cracked or broken. So it’d since been stored at my grandmother’s but she never got it going after it arrived and needs to ‘be started’ as the weights are still off (or possibly a repair?) Also the key was lost.

I’ve just recently brought it to my apartment (Gramma wanted the space!) And she supports me in whether I decide to keep it or not.Please contact me if you are interested as I am considering selling but regardless I will need to determine value/appraisal if I do keep it, at least for insurance. ”

My reply.

“You have a real Canadian treasure. Though it is called a hall clock it’s actual name is the “Nelson”. There is one on display at the Canadian Clock Museum in Deep River Ontario. Unlike many tall case clocks that decline in value yours is actually increasing since it is continually sought after by collectors. If it says Berlin on the lower part of the dial it was made before 1917. Clocks made after that simply said, “The Arthur Pequegnat Clock Company of Canada”. The Arthur Pequegnat Clock Company closed its doors in 1941.

You can easily find a replacement key. Perrins would have the key although off hand I do not know the correct size. The finial on top is a friction fit.

It would be in the neighbourhood of $2000. You should keep it not only because it has strong sentimental value but it is an important part of Canadian history. It would also be worth repairing.

NV cannot keep the clock and has plans to sell it.

October 3, 2017

Tick Talk Tuesday #10 – Do I have an Arthur Pequegnat Canadian Time clock?

Tick-Talk Tuesday is about the letters and comments I have received from you, the reader, concerning your clocks, issues you might have had and challenges you face and my responses to your questions with advice on your particular clock concern(s). For those comments and questions that stump even me, I consult within my clock circles for the best possible answer.

DP writes, “Hello Ron: I have a clock I bought recently at an auction.The clock is from Pictou County Nova Scotia. It has Canadian Time On the glass. I live about 50 kms from Truro. I would like to take the clock over to you and find out if it is a Pequegnat clock. The clock keeps good time. It is made out of birds eye maple. It measures 29 inches high, 15.5 inches wide and 5 inches deep. My technology skills are not very good and I am not able to send you a picture. My name is DP and I would be pleased to hear from you.”

My response to DP

“Yes you are pretty close to where I am. We can meet but you can also save yourself some trouble by doing a little investigating yourself. Regarding the dimensions, are you measuring the whole clock from top to bottom. The Canadian Time is 36 inches high by 15.5 by 5 inches deep. If the entire height of yours is 29 inches you are likely missing the top piece (crown) and the bottom section or both. Most were made of quarter sawn oak. I have never seen one in Bird’s Eye maple. And the words “Canadian Time are stenciled in gold on the glass door.

Next, on the bottom part of the dial face you should find the inscription, “Arthur Pequegnat Clock Company”. If not, it is a replacement dial.

If you are adventurous enough, you can unscrew the minute hand nut, take off the minute hand and pull off the hour hand underneath which is a friction fit. Next, you can unscrew the square wood panel the dial pan is mounted on. There should be 3 screws, one on top and one on either side. Once you unscrew those you can take the piece that holds the dial pan out. You can then check to see if the company name is stamped on the lower right hand side of the movement. Obviously if it says Arthur Pequegnat, that is what you have. I have included photos showing what you should see when you open it up.

Let me know how you make out.”

DP writes back.

“Hello Ron, I am not really comfortable taking the clock apart. I did take it over to DG in BH about a week or two ago. He repairs watches and clocks. He did a repair to a thin strip or band of metal (punched a new hole through it) and then reconnected it to the movement. DP is referring to the suspension spring. When it was apart the only thing I could see written on the movement was (no jewel and I think not adjustable or unadjustable). It looks like the movement might have been replaced because there are two extra holes on the back. The dial face has been put back in place incorrectly and has nothing printed on the face. I would like to take the clock to you and just get your views and opinions on where or who might have it or any other information you can give me. I would be pleased to hear from you.”

DP, “An Arthur Pequegnat movement would never have “no jewels” or “non-adjustable”on the movement. The company name would clearly be there. What you have is what some collectors would term to be a “marriage”, that is a case with another, more modern movement. If your case is 29 inches high then something is clearly missing. If you still want me to look at it, I will. Give me a call at (phone) and we’ll meet.

Folk art version of Canadian Time_4 — Folk art version of Canadian Time

DP arrived with the clock that he won at a local auction for CDN$25. Underneath the folk art and all the modifications is, indeed, a Canadian Time Clock. What appears to be maple finish is painted Birds Eye maple; underneath is oak. The base and crown are missing; the dial is a replacement and whoever replaced it mounted the dial in the wrong position. The decals are on the outside of the glass and were added later probably the same time as the Birds eye maple finish. The pendulum bob, painted some sort of brass or gold colour, is original but the pendulum rod is a replacement with a home-made leader hook. The only thing in good shape and original is the Canadian Time reverse decal.

Attaching the pendulum — DP attaches the pendulum

The movement is a replacement, an Indian made reproduction time-only movement exactly like this one at Timesavers.

Found on the back of the dial pan is this inscription.

REPAIRED SEPT 18, 2013

REPAIRS BY JAMES xxxxxx

12C PLEASANT ST STELLERTON NS

CLOCK AND xxxxxx CLOCKMAKER SINCE 1956

In short, it is a very modern interpretation of a classic clock. If it were my clock I would not do a thing to return it to its original condition; there are just too much things that would need to be addressed. However, it might be appealing to some people as a piece of folk art. As a piece of folk art DP should be pleased that he got a good deal.

July 18, 2017

More fascinating terms – the language of clocks

Regular reader and contributor JC suggested a few more clock terms I thought readers and fellow horologists might find interesting.

My source for this article is the Watch and Clock Encyclopedia by Donald de Clarke, published by Bonanza Books (1984) which is still available on Amazon.

Gridiron pendulum: A pendulum consisting of alternating steels and brass rods coupled together to compensate for downward expansion so that the centre of oscillation of the pendulum remains consistent with changes in temperature, invented by John Harrison in 1725.

final look — Gridiron pendulum on a Junghans Crispi wall clock

Broaches: To broach is to open and enlarge a hole. A Broach is a steel cutting or smoothing tool with a tapered or parallel sided edge used to cut or “finish” holes in a clock plate. Used to enlarge and then finish (smooth) a newly installed bushing on a clock plate.

Swiss made smoothing broaches — A set of Swiss made smoothing (or finishing) broaches

Motion Works: The train or wheels of a clock directly connected with the hour and minute hand.

Great wheel: The teeth that form part of the barrel of the going barrel. It is also the wheel to which the mainspring is attached.

The motion works of a clock; the largest wheel on this movement is the great wheel (Pequegnat Clock Co.)

Maintaining Power: A method to maintain the driving power while the weight is being lifted or mainspring with fusee is being wound. In effect keeping the mechanism going while winding.

Weight driven movement with maintaining power, (unmarked Vienna Regulator)

Huygens Endless Rope Drive: It is a method of providing maintaining power to drive the clock while the weight was being raised. The endless cord passes over pulley A which is attached to the great wheel and supports the driving weight B, it then passes over pulley C which has a ratchet to support small weight D. As cord E is pulled down to wind the clock ratchet C turns under it’s click to raise weight B which continues to drive the clock as it supplies torque to wheel A. This ingenious system is found in some 18th century long-case clocks.

Locking Wheel (or Count Wheel): A count wheel is the wheel that determines the number of blows to be struck in striking mechanisms.

The left wheel with notches is the count wheel

Ratchet wheel: A toothed wheel into which a click engages permitting the wheel to revolve in one direction only.

Click replaced — Toothed ratchet wheel and click

Cam: Usually a disk so that upon revolving it transmits movement to or exerts pressure upon a connecting unit.

Arrow showing location of a cam, the fly is located in the upper right

Fly: Often called the governor or controller of a chime or strike train. It is the last piece in a train of wheels.

The language of the clock world always amazes me. There are a plethora of other clock terms that I will be happy to explore in future blogs.

June 23, 2017

Arthur Pequegnat Canadian Time – a service is long overdue

Clock face Arthur Pequegnat Canadian Time clock

Hallway clock – Arthur Pequegnat Canadian Time

I wrote about this clock in 2015. The Canadian Time clock was made by the Arthur Pequegnat Clock company of Kitchener, Ontario. The Arthur Pequegnat Clock Company (1904–1941) is notable as the longest lasting Canadian-based clock manufacturer. Pequegnat clocks are sought after by Canadian collectors and often command high prices on online for-sale sites.

Former railway clock from a station in Pictou County, Nova Scotia (Canada)

The clock was made after 1917 in Kitchener, Ontario (Canada). Clocks made before 1917 had the word “Berlin” on the dial face. Kitchener was known as Berlin prior to and during the first World War. It was the town of Berlin from 1854 until 1912 and the City of Berlin from 1912 until 1916. Because the name Berlin was associated with the war against Germany the decision was made to change the name to Kitchener midway through the First World War. Kitchener is the present seat of the Regional Municipality of Waterloo, Ontario. Though it is impossible to determine the exact year this clock was made my guess is just prior to 1941 before the company closed it’s doors.

It is always disconcerting to open a clock up to discover punch marks on a movement

The clock was purchased in Sept 2013 and after 3 1/2 years it is overdue for servicing.

Movement showing punch marks as indicated by arrows — Movement showing punch marks (arrows)

It is always disconcerting to open a clock up to discover punch marks on a movement, specifically around the pivot holes as one would expect. I am one of those who believe that a punch should never be used on a clock movement. Most, including myself, would consider it a quick and easy shortcut that is not designed to extent the life of the clock in any appreciable manner. Because punching weakens the side wall of the pivot hole those two pivot holes in particular are prime examples of the need for bushings. In total the clock required 5 bushings. The second wheel pivot hole was worn the most. One back plate bushing was required for the escape wheel arbour.

Time only movement are relatively simple to work on and for the novice this is the first kind of movement you should tackle. Whenever working on a clock be sure to take as many photos as you can; you will need them if you get stuck re-assembling the movement. On this clock the 3rd and 4th wheels look exactly the same but in fact differ slightly in height. Photos taken at the right angles will easily confirm the difference.

A strange anomaly that I did not notice when I first bought the clock; additional screw holes

The mainspring is in excellent condition and might have been a replacement at some point in the clock’s life. I had some difficulty re-hooking the arbour to the spring and had to use pliers to bend it, but just a little.

I found one strange anomaly that I did not notice when I first bought the clock. There are additional screw holes in the back board leading me to believe that the clock might have had another type of Pequegnat movement which would mean that the current movement is a replacement. Possible reasons, a catastrophic failure of the original movement, a conversion from a time and strike movement to a time-only clock (requiring a new dial) – it is anyone’s guess. A mystery nonetheless.

Servicing this clock took less than a day. Testing takes a couple of weeks. With new bushings in place and an oiling this clock should run reliably for years to come.

I began keeping a detailed log of clock repairs noting, in particular, when the movement was last oiled so that I do not wait too long between inspection and oiling.

April 25, 2017

Tick-Talk Tuesday #3 – question about Arthur Pequegnat clocks

Tick-Talk Tuesday is about the letters and comments I have received from you, the reader, concerning your clocks, issues you might have had and challenges you face and my responses to your questions with advice on your particular clock concern(s). For those comments and questions that stump even me, I consult within my clock circles for the best possible answer.

Arthur Pequegnat clocks were made between 1908 and 1941 in Berlin (now Kitchener), Ontario. Those produced before 1917 had “Berlin” inscribed on the dial face. The town of Berlin from 1854 until 1912 became the City of Berlin from 1912 until 1916. The name Berlin was associated with the war against Germany consequently the decision was made by city officials to change the name to Kitchener midway through the First World War. Kitchener is the present seat of the Regional Municipality of Waterloo, Ontario (Canada). Arthur Pequegnat clocks were the only wholly made Canadian clocks (aside from a short run of clocks made by the Canada Clock Company and later the Hamilton Clock Company in the 1870s) and are particularly sought after by Canadian collectors.

AO from Ontario writes, “Good Morning Ron, I live in Ontario (Canada) and have two Pequegnat clocks I am thinking of selling. Could you give me an idea of how much they are worth? The mantel clock is an Oxford. Thank you.

The clocks she mentions in her email are the Arthur Pequegnat Oxford mantel clock (time and strike) and the King Edward time-only wall clock missing the King Edward lower drop decal.

King Edward with 15 day Moncton movement showing decal from the Canadian Clock Museum in Deep River, Ontario

I replied. “I looked at your photos and have some comments. The time-only wall clock is known as the King Edward. From the photo yours seems to look intact save for the missing decal in the lower drop. A King Edward decal should be in the middle of the glass panel. It appears to be replacement glass which will certainly affect the value. However you should be able to get in the $600 to $1000 range for your King Edward clock. If you are selling in Canada where collectors are attracted to Pequegnat clocks because they are wholly Canadian made you should do reasonably well. If the clock has been recently serviced you can expect to price it a little higher.

Mantel clocks always command lower prices but your Oxford should easily sell in the $400 range. I would price both slightly higher and see what responses you get.”

AOs reply, ” Hi again Ron, A dealer has offered me $750.00 for both clocks. Is that reasonable knowing that he has to resell them?”

I advised AO that they should dicker a bit and that the dealer certainly knows the value. I suggested that she could also try to sell it on an online for-sale site.

AO replied later and said they posted the clock on a for-sale site and the same dealer offered $650 for the King Edward.

I emailed her again asking how they made out with the sale. AO replied and said the dealer backed out and the clocks are still for sale.

UPDATE: AO wrote 1 week later and said she has sold them both for $350 more that the first offer. She is very pleased.

April 4, 2017

The schoolhouse clock that was never called the schoolhouse clock

My recent acquisition of another schoolhouse clock stimulated my curiosity and prompted me to do some research on the origin of the name. In this article I will describe my thoughts on how the schoolhouse clock came to be and my most recent Sessions wall clock purchase.

During my research I found it very interesting that little can be found regarding the history of the schoolhouse clock. I realize that many older readers growing up in the rural areas of Canada and elsewhere in North American have fond memories of the one-room schoolhouse with a large clock in either the front or the back of a classroom. I did not live that experience rather, when I was young and attending a large urban school the Simplex master / slave clock is the one I remember best.

The schoolhouse clock that I bought recently adds to my modest collection of three schoolhouse clocks. Given that I spent many years as an educator, it seems only fitting that I would have an interest in schoolhouse clocks. My schoolhouse clocks are all a similar style; short drop octagon, constructed of oak, brass dial bezel, bottom glazed access sash, 12 inch dial or 9 inches as in this case of this clock and the Waterbury pictured below. Although 9 inch clocks were used in schoolhouses they were also found in office or workplace settings.

They were not called a schoolhouse clock when they were made

Schoolhouse clocks were the standard design for early North American school houses because of their larger, easy to read dials. These distinctive clocks were hung in many schools rooms across Canada. The majority had simple but tough time-only movements and some even came with a calendar function. Occasionally they were ordered with time and strike movements but the cheapest and most popular versions were time-only. This type of clock had a very utilitarian look and function.

They were not always called schoolhouse clocks. None of the labels on my clocks have the word “schoolhouse” written on them and are either described as a”drop Octagon” in the case of this Sessions or have a specific model name. The term schoolhouse clock was not applied to them when they were made but came to be known as a particular style of clock found in school settings by later collectors. If a particular style was ordered by a school authority makers might have informally described them as clocks for schools or “school clocks”. In any event, the term has become a permanent part of the clock collector language.

With a swinging pendulum visible from a distance the clock can easily be seen running and the open-door bottom access sash allowed for restarting and adjusting the rate. In some clock collecting circles it is said that schoolhouse clocks are a derivative of the English drop dial fusee clock, an example of which can be seen here. Drop dials were produced in the late 18th through to the 19th century and closely resembled the schoolhouse clock. Unlike spring-driven schoolhouse clocks, fusee clocks have conical construction from which a chain or gut-line is pulled by the mainspring barrel allowing the power of the mainspring to be released evenly thus assuring better accuracy.

When I am in the process of buying a clock I always ask the seller this question. “How much do you know about this clock?”

When I am in the process of buying a clock I always ask the question. “How much do you know about this clock?”. I always ask this question because I am interested in a clock’s provenance and some of the stories are quite intriguing. The seller, a man in his late fifties, thought about it for a moment and said, “Well, I’ve had it since I was 14”. The clock came out of a decommissioned one-room schoolhouse in a small town called Springhill, Nova Scotia (Canada). However, when I first saw the clock I said to him, “It looks like a nice office clock”. The seller quickly corrected me and said, “It’s a schoolhouse clock”. “It runs for a little bit and then stops, maybe you can do something with it”, he added.

It is a 1920’s vintage Sessions Drop Octagon wall clock. It has a solid medium dark oak case with original hands, ornate pressed brass pendulum bob, solid brass bezel, 80% of an intact label on backboard, tin dial pan and stenciled lower glazing on the sash. The paper dial is original but it is heavily “foxed”. The movement is 8-day time only. The dimensions of the clock are a 9″ diameter dial, 19″ high, 13 1/2″ wide by 4″ deep. It is in reasonably good condition given it’s age and for $20 it was quite a bargain. It is also intact; there are no missing or broken pieces.

sessions-drop-octogon time-only movement — Sessions time-only movement

I don’t think this clock has been run in quite some time.

I took it home, hung it on the wall and true to what the seller said it would run less than a minute and stop. I noticed a rubbing sound around the pendulum area as it was running. The pendulum bob was hitting against the inside front of the case. I took the movement out and observed a bent crutch rod, corrected it, put it on a test stand and it ran immediately. As expected the movement had quite a bit of grime and required attention but it ran for a day before I took it apart for a thorough servicing. I don’t think this clock has been run in quite some time.

I found it curious that the suspension spring was soldered where the spring hooks into the top block. It likely kept slipping off and solder was used to keep it in place. In any event, the spring cannot be taken out without first removing the solder! The clock is in very good overall condition for it’s age and the movement was not as dirty as I first thought. The pivots are in decent condition for the most part and there is minimal wear overall. The movement was disassembled, cleaned and in the process I decided to install two bushings for added insurance, one on the escape wheel (front plate) and the other on an intermediate wheel (front plate). The movement was tested, put in beat and reinstalled back into it’s case.

I may replace the paper dial but I am going to see if I can live with it for the time being.

The dial has many brownish spots as you can see in the next photo. The clock had to have been in a moist environment for a long period for the paper to discolour. My two options are, one, leave as is or, two, replace with a paper dial. I may replace the paper dial but I am going to see if I can live with it for the time being. The brass bezel cleaned up well but the exposed tin surrounding the paper dial has blackish areas which I managed to reduce with CLR but could not totally eliminate. Of course, I later learned that CLR is really not appropriate for this purpose as it is an acid.

clock face showing rust staining — Dial showing rust staining

The case has years of grime which was easily remedied with Murphy’s soap and water. It cleaned up very nicely. Following the cleaning I gave the case a light coat of shellac to restore the luster of the oak. It looks good and it runs well.

My other drop octagon clocks are a Waterbury Arion, an unknown Ansonia and an Arthur Pequegnat Brandon II.

rs-bezel-and-glass-on-a-waterbury-_1 — This Waterbury Arion is 19 inches long

RS April 16 — Ansonia short drop octagon, model unknown, 12 inch dial

AP repaired_3 — Arthur Pequegnat Brandon II, 12 inch dial

Time-only movements are the easiest to work on and a very good movement to learn on.

Time-only movements are the easiest to work on and a very good movement to learn on. If you are a beginner in clock collecting and repair clocks such as this are satisfying clocks to work on and presents few challenges. I am happy that I managed to bring this particular clock back to it’s former schoolhouse glory.

The term schoolhouse clock is a term that was not applied when they were made but came to be known as a particular style of clock found in school settings by later collectors. The schoolhouse clock is such an endearing name that when one thinks of a schoolhouse clock the memory of these specific styles of clock immediately comes to mind.

January 4, 2017

Clock repair in days gone by

Rare Ingraham Huron found on a local online for-sale site

rs-annapolis-royal-oct-16_21-42 — Clock shop in rural Nova Scotia

I had a discussion with David, a horologist acquaintance who is currently working on my 138 year old Ingraham Huron mantel clock (pictured above) about clock repairs in days gone by. He said he had happened to have a conversation a few days ago with an 82 year friend who had been in the clock repair business most of his life who said that times were very different in the “olden days”.

Imagine a Canadian home in the 1920s or the 1930s. In those days a clock was like a refrigerator or a washing machine; it was an appliance. The clock was generally inexpensive and purchased for one reason, to tell the time. Quite often it was the only timekeeping device in the home for common folk. Despite the fact that they were relatively poor timekeepers, people in those days did not demand accuracy in a clock, not like today. If it was correct within a minute or two a week that was just fine. Not only was the clock cheap, it was sturdy, functional and withstood a certain amount of abuse. My Arthur Pequegnat kitchen clock, for instance, sold for $5 when it was new in 1912. Five dollars was a lot of money when the average person such as a a railway employee might have made $662 a year or about $12.75 per week, but the home had to have a clock.

Arthur Pequegnat kichen clock — This Arthur Pequegnat kitchen clock sold for $5 in 1912

There was always someone in the community that tinkered with clocks and for very little money, or a trade for services, the “appliance” was repaired and promptly returned to it’s owner. The tinkerer was usually someone who fixed things in their spare time rather than fix clocks as a profession. In larger urban centres clock repair persons (trained horologists) set up professional shops but in rural Nova Scotia those services were expensive and few and far between.

When the day came and the clock stopped running, it had to be fixed, and quickly. Often the request was, “just make it work”. The repair did not have to be pretty so long as the clock functioned and the cost of the repair was reasonable. Specialized clock tools were expensive and difficult to acquire so the tinkerer relied on tools they had lying around in the garage or the basement; a hammer, a pair of pliers, a punch, a file, a screwdriver and so on. The self-trained tinkerer did the best he could to make his neighbours’ clocks run often using questionable methods. Since brass bushings were not available the tinkerer would use a punch to close a pivot hole. In the 1940s when the soldering gun was commercially available and inexpensive, it too was added to the toolkit and often a piece of brass was soldered (or riveted) to the plate to accommodate a new pivot hole. They might also soak the movement in a bucket of gasoline overnight and then oil it with something like 3-in-1 oil. Sometimes this would be enough to clean out the gunk and allow the clock to run again, the costumer would be happy because their clock came back working and the tinkerer would charge very little for their “services”. The clock was not worth a great deal and the customer would not have had the money to pay a professional anyway. Common short-term solutions such as these often led to more frequent repairs and eventually replacement of the clock.

In the 1930s the synchronous electric clock began to replace the mechanical clock. Yet, homeowners in the rural areas who had no electricity hung on to them and kept them running, but eventually the electric clock gradually replaced the mechanical clock. Although, many of those old clocks were trashed, sent to the garage, the basement, or the attic, some were passed down to family members and are cherished keepsakes to this day. Not long after, the tinkerers in many communities began to disappear.

Today we covet our prized antique and vintage clocks that adorn our homes. When they are ticking away we marvel at the inventors and innovators of the past and when we want that certain clock, cost is no object. To repair them we employ all manner of modern technology; bushing machines, broaches, special files, clamps, spring winders and lathes to ensure that the “job is done right”, the clocks end up lasting years and are “better than ever”. But it was not always like that.

We look down upon those tinkerers of the past and the repairs they made without really understanding what it was like during those times. “What butcher worked on this?” I hear some people saying. Well, I have said it myself, but after talking to David I now have a better understanding of the clock tinkerers of past and the important work they did for their communities.

November 20, 2016

Why you should visit a clock museum

Every museum I have ever been to has allowed me to walk away with the feeling that I have learned something new. All museums document interesting histories that are intended to educate and inspire visitors. The Canadian Clock Museum at 60 James Street, Deep River, Ontario, operated by curator Allan Symons is one such example.

RS outside shots (2) — The Canadian Clock Museum

The Canadian Clock Museum in Deep River, Ontario is a 2 1/2 hour drive from the nation’s capital, Ottawa, Ontario. I have visited it twice and I found myself learning even more on my second tour. It has a fascinating collection of clocks that are largely from North America. However, it has the most extensive collection of Arthur Pequegnat clocks that I know of outside a private collection.

RS Pequegnat mantel clocks (3) — A collection of Pequegnat mantel clocks found at the museum

The Arthur Pequegnat Clock Company made clocks in Kitchener, Ontario (called Berlin, Ontario up to 1917) to 1941 when the company ceased production. Pequegnat clocks were wholly made in Canada while their counterparts built and assembled cases in Canada and imported movements from the US, England, France and Germany. The Canada Clock Company and Hamilton Clock Company had a 12 year span also made both cases and movements but not at the volume of Arthur Pequegnat.

I have written about Arthur Pequegnat clocks in previous posts and I have been slowly building a modest collection for myself.

RS Prince of Wales Canada Clock Co (2) — Prince of Wales parlour clock, Canada Clock Company circa 1880

RS pequegnat tall case clocks — Three tall case Arthur Pequegnat clocks

Many manufacturers are represented at this museum and even if you have only a passing interest in clocks you would no doubt find the displays both interesting and thought provoking. Companies represented are the Western Clock Company, Walter Clocks, the Snider Clock Corporation, Seth Thomas that operated a factory in Peterborough from the 1930’s to the 80’s, Breslin Industries, the Hammond Company of Canada Ltd to name just a few. Canadian Clock Maker Martin Cheney who briefly made high quality wall and floor clocks in Montreal in the early 1800’s is not represented, unfortunately.

Twiss long case clock — Twiss tall case early 1800’s

There are even some special clocks such as this Synchronome electrical impulse master clock from the 1930’s.

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA — Master clock mechanism

So, spend time at the museum talking to its knowledgeable curator or avail yourself of the manuals and documents at hand and conduct your own research into a specific clock.

This museum is modest by museum standards and not quite up to the scope and scale of the National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors Museum located in Columbia, Penn, USA but don’t let its compact size fool you. There is plenty to see.

If you have any interest in clocks I strongly urge you visit this one if you are at or near the Deep River area. Outside Canada? I encourage you to seek out clock museums in your own country and take the time to understand the history of clocks from around the world. Its about time!

May 31, 2016

Clock Repair Tools

RS Brandon — Arthur Pequegnat Brandon time only wall clock

It is time to buy the tools I need for clock repair. I already have a number of basic tools to get me started; pliers, letdown chucks, screwdrivers, etc.

However, my first significant tool is an Ollie Baker Mainspring Winder which arrived from the USA today. It is pictured below. The Ollie Baker comes with an assortment of collars for every size of mainspring.

The spring winder will enable me to inspect, clean, and re-install barreled or open springs on all the clocks I will be servicing. My first impression is that it is a robust and well-machined tool that will give years of service. Indeed, one of the most important tools for clock repair enthusiasts is the spring-winder.

I also ordered bushing kit #5488 from Perrins today which will enable me to have the bushings I need in order to use the Bergeon Bushing Machine that I will purchase later on this year.

The Bergeon Bushing tool is “Swiss made” and exudes quality. In every clock, due to considerable wear, the plates have to be bushed from time to time. This tool allows the bushing of plates of various sizes. The kit includes driving punches, centering bit, stakes, and reamers. I can bush by hand which some folks do by using appropriate reamers and files but I know that a bushing machine is a must-have. The first photo shows a clock movement that I had professionally bushed. It required 5 bushings in all in addition to cleaning and oiling and it runs very well.

With these tools, I can progress more seriously into this most interesting hobby.

January 4, 2016

Maple Leaf clock is sent off for repairs

RS Complete so far and on display (1) — The case is about 90% restored

December 18th marks the day that my Arthur Pequegnat Maple Leaf fan-top is off to repair.

Sadly this is a repair that I cannot perform myself at this stage of my learning. The problem is essentially a clutch plate off the centre arbor that is not engaging the gear for the strike side. The result is that the hour and minute hand do not move at all thus the centre arbor is quite loose. In the meantime I might as well have some bushing work and a thorough cleaning done.

Typically gingerbread clocks go for almost nothing on the for-sale sites. The fact that this is a Pequegnat means something special however and in my view it is worth preserving for years to come.

Here is the problem area.

view of the clutch cup on the centre arbour — Clutch cup is loose

Although it is difficult to visualize from this photo, the cup clutch plate is very loose and needs to be reattached to allow a firm connection to the gear beneath. As such I am prepared to put a little money into this clock and keep it in my collection.

December 17, 2015

Maple Leaf case restoration Part 2

I have had this Arthur Pequegnat Maple Leaf fan-top clock for several weeks now and have decided to keep it in my collection. I was not satisfied with the condition of the case when I first saw it and knew that something had to be done. After several hours of work on the case I can finally say that the results have been very good…not excellent because there are one or two things I would have done differently. For example, I originally used a cotton cloth to bring down the finish and ended up rubbing too aggressively in some sections. Looking back I would use 0000 steel wool from start to finish.

This shot is a comparison between the original finish and taken after hours of restoration.

RS Pequegnat fan top (6) — Condition of clock when first brought home

RS fantop — After hours of rubbing and scrubbing

As you can see in the second photo the oak grain is natural and pronounced; the mottling has disappeared. As mentioned there were one or two spots where I was a little too aggressive with the steel wool which I may address later on but for the moment I am going to live with it.

I applied four coats of Amber Shellac and between coats I rubbed the finish with 0000 steel wool. Shellac is the proper approach for case restoration as that product would have been used at that time. The clock now looks very close to what it would have looked like at the time it was made which would be about 1910. The next photo shows the clock fully re-assembled and on display and the next, how it looked when I brought it home.

RS on display — Ready to be brought to the clock shop for repair

RS Pequegnat fan top (3) — Just brought home

Although I am able to dis-assemble, clean and oil a clock mechanism there is a problem with the center arbor not engaging the strike side of the clock. It is off to Doctor Clock in Halifax for repair and cleaning of the movement.

December 7, 2015

Maple Leaf case restoration Part 1

Although my newest Arthur Pequegnat kitchen clock was complete in every way the case looked like something pretty dire happened to the finish.

I mentioned before that the clock was likely in a very warm environment for a long period (an attic perhaps) and while there are no cracks or breaks in the wood there was a lot of what I called mottling.

What you see in the first photo is the condition of the case when I first got it. Some might like it that way, I don’t. The seller thought it added “character”. Hmm!

I sought some advice on the NAWCC forum site by asking a few questions and was informed that a member had put together a recipe for this kind of situation. The recipe included turpentine, alcohol, vinegar, boiled linseed oil and 000 steel wool. I found that it worked to a point but the mottling was quite pronounced and I finally had to resort to lacquer thinner and steel wool to take the stubborn stuff off.

In some small spots I made the mistake of rubbing too enthusiastically and got down down to the bare wood but I will cover those areas later with tinted shellac a wood covering which was used at the time (circa 1910).

The photos might show the case as darker than it is but it is a golden oak which will be close to the final product . I may have to do a little research on shellac from this point onward but I will report on my findings. Thus far a lot of the grunt work has been done.

This is taken at the final stage after the first treatment with steel wool and lacquer thinner and the mixture described above. As you can see the case has undergone a dramatic change although it is far from finished. The carved detailing is also beginning to show through.

Any suggestions or advice would be appreciated.

November 22, 2015

Maple Leaf clock motion works issue

Pequegnat Maple Leaf (2) — The movement in its case

I knew this Arthur Pequegnat clock had issues when I bought it but I felt that I just had to have a gingerbread clock for my collection. It is a beautiful clock and once fully restored it will be a show piece.

After taking the clock out of its case and investigating further I think I have located the problem and it appears that a previous owner had attempted a fix. Perhaps the repair attempt was made by the owner himself since it looks like a poor effort because of scratch and dent marks on a particular washer that can be seen in the next photo.

The photo below shows the hour cannon and minute arbor. There is a brass washer located near a toothed gear that is very loose. The washer is not secured to the post. Because the washer is very loose there is no firm connection between the gear and the one immediately beneath it. The hour pinion should have a tight fit on the centre arbor. As a result of the slippage the time side works but does not engage the centre arbor.

The movement obviously needs to be taken apart. However, the problem is twofold. First I am able to dis-assemble the movement but I do not have the skills to fix the centre arbor issue. Secondly, the plates are steel (with nickel plating) with brass bushing inserts which are not likely to be easily knocked out and they do not match modern bushings from today’s suppliers. It would take special reaming tools to install new bushings, tools I do not have. However, I can see that it needs at least 6 new bushings.

In the meantime I can get to work on the case. The case was likely subjected to heat (stored in hot location like an attic for a long period) and the shellac finish has melted into the alligatored finish you see here.

The solution is a special mix of alcohol, boiled linseed oil, turpentine, lacquer and vinegar. It will require time and patience but I believe I can restore the case to its original condition. There are no cracks, nicks or gouges in the finish so I have a very good starting point, I think.

If you have any comments on this fine classic feel free to post.

November 17, 2015

Arthur Pequegnat Maple Leaf Kitchen Clock

In November 2015, I added an Arthur Pequegnat Maple Leaf “fan top” to my collection. The clock was advertised as non-running, and the seller’s description was accurate—it had its share of challenges. While gingerbread-style kitchen clocks don’t typically appeal to me, I felt that, as a Canadian, if I were to own one, it should be a Pequegnat.

This clock dates back to the Berlin era (before 1917, when Berlin was renamed Kitchener, Ontario) and features the signature nickel-plated steel plates with brass bushings, characteristic of most time-and-strike Pequegnat clocks.

The clock is complete with its Maple Leaf bob, an original untouched dial, most of its label, and a remarkably well-preserved maple leaf decal on the front glass.

RS Pequegnat fan top (8) — _{Berlin Ontario label, mostly intact}

RS Pequegnat fan top (18) — _{Maple Leaf bob}

RS Pequegnat fan top (15) — _{Maple Leaf decal}

I managed to get the clock in beat by adjusting the verge, but the minute arbor is quite loose, causing the minute and hour hands to stay stationary. Instead of attempting a full repair on my own, I’m considering having the clock professionally serviced. In the meantime, I plan to remove the movement from the case to examine the issue further. It could be a simple fix—or something more complex.

RS Pequegnat fan top (5) — _{The mottled finish on the entire case}

The case poses another challenge. While it has no chips, cracks, or missing pieces, the seller believed the mottled finish added character. I strongly disagree—it’s far from appealing.

To gather restoration ideas, I shared this clock on the NAWCC forum site. Although the finish might be original, it appears the clock was stored in a hot environment, causing the finish to degrade. As one forum member explained, “The case was likely subjected to heat (stored in the attic), and the shellac finish has melted into the alligatored appearance you see now.” When shellac softens, it attracts airborne dirt, further compromising the surface.

Although I’m capable of refinishing the case, the movement also requires repair. After inspecting it, I’ve realized the cost of professional repairs is currently beyond my budget. However, I plan to educate myself on servicing antique clocks and intend to handle the repairs myself.

November 15, 2015

Arthur Pequegnat Canadian Time wall clock

The Canadian Time clock was produced by the Arthur Pequegnat Clock Company, which holds a special place in Canadian horological history. Founded in 1904, the company became the longest-lasting Canadian-based clock manufacturer, operating until 1941. Pequegnat clocks are known for their solid craftsmanship and distinctive designs, contributing significantly to the Canadian clock-making industry during the early 20th century.

Arthur Pequegnat, originally from Switzerland, brought his expertise in clockmaking to Canada, where he established a reputation for high-quality clocks. The company manufactured a wide range of clocks, from wall clocks to mantel clocks, many of which are now highly prized by collectors for their durability and unique aesthetic. Despite the challenges of competing with larger international clock manufacturers, Pequegnat’s attention to detail and commitment to quality ensured the company’s success for several decades.

Today, Pequegnat clocks are considered a piece of Canadian history, and the company’s legacy endures through the ongoing interest of collectors and enthusiasts, like myself, who appreciate the skill and craftsmanship of these antique clocks.

Pequegnat wall clock — _{Canadian Time clock by Arthur Pequegnat}

This particular clock was made after 1916 in Kitchener, Ontario, Canada. Clocks made before 1917 were marked “Berlin” on the dial face. The town was known as Berlin from 1854 until 1912 and became the City of Berlin from 1912 until 1916. Due to the negative association with Germany during the First World War, the decision was made to change the name to Kitchener midway through the war. Today, Kitchener serves as the seat of the Regional Municipality of Waterloo, Ontario.

Unfortunately, the exact year my clock was manufactured is unknown as Pequegnat did not date-stamp their movements, but the Canadian Time series was produced up until 1941. By that year, the demand for brass from World War II armament makers, a crucial material for clock movements, forced the Arthur Pequegnat company to halt production. If the clock was made as late as 1941, it would be 72 years old.

This clock features Arabic numerals, which was less common since most were ordered with Roman numerals. As a railway clock, the use of Arabic numbers would have made it easier to read for the general public in a train station. The manufacturer allowed customers to choose between Arabic or Roman numerals when ordering. Additionally, buyers could also opt for a version of this clock with time, strike, and calendar functions.

The crossed horseshoes on the base of a clock are often associated with good luck and protection. In many cultures, horseshoes are considered symbols of good fortune, particularly when they are displayed with the open end facing upward, which is thought to catch and hold luck. I have not seen another Canadian Time clock with crossed horseshoes.

I’m hoping to track down a photo of the clock from its time at the Pictou, Nova Scotia train station before it was decommissioned in the early 1990s, as that could really help narrow down the clock’s manufacturing date.

The clock itself is quite large, measuring 37 inches high, 5 inches deep, and 15 inches wide. It’s made of quarter-sawn oak, which results in boards with annual rings mostly perpendicular to the face, providing greater stability and minimizing warping.

The Canadian Time clock is a reliable timepiece, showcasing the quality and craftsmanship that went into its creation.

September 10, 2015

Arthur Pequegnat Brandon time-only wall clock

This my first Arthur Pequegnat clock and it is the Brandon II. The first edition was produced up to 1916. Though very similar in design, this second edition was made from 1917 to 1941.

The Arthur Pequegnat Clock Company made clocks in Kitchener, Ontario from 1903 to 1941.

Normally found in a Canadian schoolroom in the 1930s and 1940s or in an office setting it was one of Pequegnats more popular styles. It is an octagonal short drop, time-only schoolhouse clock. The first edition had the exact dimensions but with a more ornate frame around the dial bezel.

Schoolhouse clocks were generally time-only as there would be other methods, such as a bells or alarms, to mark key points in a typical school day. If situated in an office environment a strike train would be too distracting to the employees. Brandon clocks also came with calendars, a useful feature for both school or office.

Both the case, which is made of quarter-sawn oak, and the brass movement were made by the Arthur Pequegnat Clock Company in their small Kitchener factory until 1941. Brass shortages during the Second World War caused the company to abruptly end production.

The time-only movement is relatively simple with few gears and little to go wrong. It was reliable, dependable and made to withstand the abuse of a school or office environment.

This clock was owned locally by an antique collector who after having it for a number of years decided to sell it in his antique shop in Great Village, Nova Scotia. The price was reasonable.

Arthur Pequegnat Brandon time=only movement

The case is in excellent condition, as is the face and bezel. Although the clock runs and keep reasonable time it has an annoying squeak suggesting that something is definitely amiss. I discovered that the first wheel had considerable pivot hole wear. This is the kind of repair I am unable to do at this time since I have neither the tools nor the knowledge. I brought the clock to a horologist in Halifax, Nova Scotia where the servicing was completed.

Five bushings were installed, the mainspring was cleaned and the movement was oiled. I believe it is a worthwhile investment and I expect it to be ticking away for years to come.

June 4, 2015

If the dial is a replacement, it is a Pequegnat and someone took the trouble to install larger (and correct) spade hands

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It certainly ranks as the best exhibit in Atlantic Canada

If you are a clock fan or even if you only have a casual interest in the world of horology, this small clock museum may surprise you

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The Arthur Pequegnat clock company had an illustrious albeit short history

Arthur Pequegnat clocks such as a simple mantel clock you see here can command hundred of dollars in Canada

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When I am in the process of buying a clock I always ask the seller this question. “How much do you know about this clock?”

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