Tag: time and strike

Thomas Tompion: The Father of English Clockmaking

August 13, 2024

Thomas Tompion (baptized July 25, 1639– died, November 20th, 1713) was an English clockmaker and watchmaker, often referred to as the “Father of English Clockmaking.” He is renowned for his exceptional craftsmanship and significant contributions to the development of clockmaking during the late 17th and early 18th centuries. In fact, Tompion is the most celebrated … More Thomas Tompion: The Father of English Clockmaking

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Optimizing Care for a Vintage Mauthe Clock: Inspection and Oiling

July 23, 2024

It’s time to inspect the movement on this mid-thirties German box clock. Purchased at an antique mall in Peterborough, Ontario, in May of 2017, it was serviced in 2020. This clock is part of a small collection at our family cottage and runs for about three months each year. However, the cottage environment can be … More Optimizing Care for a Vintage Mauthe Clock: Inspection and Oiling

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How to Safely Operate and Maintain Mechanical Clocks: Tips and Hazards

July 16, 2024

Mechanical clocks, especially older or larger ones, can pose various dangers during operation and maintenance. In this post, we will cover some of the risks and hazards. Mainsprings Do not underestimate the power of a clock with mainsprings. Mechanical clocks often use powerful mainsprings to drive their mechanisms. If these components are mishandled, they can … More How to Safely Operate and Maintain Mechanical Clocks: Tips and Hazards

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1930 Kienzle Box Clock | A Heartfelt Gift and Memorable Encounter

July 9, 2024

Occasionally I have clocks gifted to me as in the case of this lovely Art Deco-style German round-top wall clock made by Kienzle. The gift was greatly appreciated, although there was a small condition attached, which I will explain later. There are times when people consider gifting me a clock but hesitate because of the … More 1930 Kienzle Box Clock | A Heartfelt Gift and Memorable Encounter

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Troubleshooting a Time-Side Mainspring Issue in a Kienzle Wall Clock

June 18, 2024

Kienzle might not ring a bell for many clock enthusiasts, but it was a major German producer of clocks for the general public. Kienzle Uhren GmbH, was founded in 1822 by Johannes Schlenker in Schwenningen, in Black Forest region. Jakob Kienzle joined the family by marriage in 1883 and became the sole owner in 1897. … More Troubleshooting a Time-Side Mainspring Issue in a Kienzle Wall Clock

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Castle Combe’s Clock: Unveiling A 17th-Century Turret clock in the Cotswolds

June 7, 2024

Old clocks often have rich histories that reflect the technological advancements and craftsmanship of their time. Exploring these clocks provides a unique perspective on the history of timekeeping, engineering, and artistry in the UK. Many of these clocks are tied to significant historical events or figures, offering a tangible connection to the past. Many old … More Castle Combe’s Clock: Unveiling A 17th-Century Turret clock in the Cotswolds

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The Pequegnat Jewel and the Simcoe – similar yet subtly different

April 23, 2024

The newest addition to my collection of Pequegant clocks is the Jewel. That marks a total of nine Pequegnat clocks in my modest collection. I was not actively seeking a new clock. In fact, I haven’t purchased one in months, and mantel clocks weren’t even on my radar. I bought the Simcoe (above) in 2018 … More The Pequegnat Jewel and the Simcoe – similar yet subtly different

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Hamburg Amerikanische Uhrenfabrik: The Clock Company with an Alias

March 22, 2024

This article traces the historical journey of a significant German clock manufacturer, ultimately absorbed by the Junghans Clock and Watch Company in the late 1920s. After providing a brief overview of its history, the article will delve into the specifics of the clock movement that is next on my workbench. Among clock collectors and admirers, … More Hamburg Amerikanische Uhrenfabrik: The Clock Company with an Alias

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Milestones in Horology

March 1, 2024

The clock is one of man’s greatest achievements. The development of instruments to tell time is the unwavering toil of brilliant minds from many disciplines who, for over 800 years, worked tirelessly to create, innovate, and improve methods for telling the time. Horology is not only the study of time but the synergy of art, … More Milestones in Horology

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The Steeple Clock – function combines with design

February 23, 2024

A steeple clock is a type of clock designed to resemble a miniature church steeple or spire. This style of clock is often characterized by its tall and narrow structure. These clocks gained popularity in the mid-19th century and were often produced in various styles. The design was influenced by the Gothic Revival architecture that … More The Steeple Clock – function combines with design

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How Common Are Brass Mainsprings in Clocks?

February 20, 2024

Elisha Manross, though less commonly known compared to American clockmakers such as Seth Thomas, New Haven, or Waterbury, played a significant role in the development of Connecticut clocks. In his book American Shelf and Wall Clocks Robert Ball listed Elisha Manross as being in business from 1827 -1849.  He was a prolific clockmaker and produced … More How Common Are Brass Mainsprings in Clocks?

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Thrift Shop Treasure for $1.65 – will it sell for more!

February 16, 2024

Jauch had ties to one of the oldest clock-maker families in the Black Forest. The Gerbrueder Jauch company, known for manufacturing hall, wall, and mantel clocks, faced challenges in late 1979 due to export restrictions, ultimately leading to bankruptcy in 1986. Renowned for providing affordable yet attractive clocks for average households, Gerbrueder Jauch GmbH produced … More Thrift Shop Treasure for $1.65 – will it sell for more!

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Trouble Strikes Thrice: The Notion of Bad Luck in Threes

February 13, 2024

The belief that bad luck happens in threes is a common folk belief that suggests that if you experience one bad event or stroke of bad luck, two more are likely to follow in quick succession. While this adage is not grounded in any scientific or empirical evidence, it has persisted for years. In this … More Trouble Strikes Thrice: The Notion of Bad Luck in Threes

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A tale of two mantel clocks – German vs American engineering

February 9, 2024

Assessing the quality of mantel clocks, whether American or German, involves considering various factors such as craftsmanship, materials used, design, and overall reliability. Both American and German manufacturers have a rich history in clockmaking, and each has its own unique characteristics. In my collection, I’ve assembled a diverse array of clocks, featuring both American and … More A tale of two mantel clocks – German vs American engineering

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Wrapping up the servicing of a Seth Thomas type 89 movement

February 2, 2024

Seth Thomas is a well-known American clock manufacturer with a long history, and they produced a variety of clock movements over the years. The Type 89 movement is one of the many clock movements produced by Seth Thomas between 1900 and 1938. The mantel clock in question features the Type 89 movement. Acquired in the … More Wrapping up the servicing of a Seth Thomas type 89 movement

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The awkward task of telling someone the true value of a Common Clock

January 19, 2024

People often ask me about the value of their mechanical clock(s), but the reality is, that many of them turn out to be either common mantel clocks, clocks made in China, or clocks that have little resale value. Of course, there is the odd gem! Expressing that the clock may not be worth as much … More The awkward task of telling someone the true value of a Common Clock

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Is this a four-glass clock or a crystal regulator

January 12, 2024

During the winter months, I teach part-time in a justice program at our local community college. The other day, I had a former student visit this blog and she commented on her admiration for one of my clocks, specifically a time and strike crystal regulator by Ansonia. Thanks, Cate for allowing me the opportunity to … More Is this a four-glass clock or a crystal regulator

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Relocating a unique New Haven kit clock

January 9, 2024

For years, my wife and I have been on the hunt for an elusive Arthur Pequegnat Hall clock, a prized possession among Canadian collectors. Recently, I stumbled upon what seemed like the jackpot—a seemingly authentic piece advertised for a mere $100. However, as I explored the deal further, doubts crept in, casting a shadow over … More Relocating a unique New Haven kit clock

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