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wall clock repairs

Clearly, dial clocks, drop dial clocks, Vienna regulators and cuckoo clocks are all just different forms of wall clocks. But I felt they all deserved their own categories. Here I want to focus on German and American 'regulators' in particular plus all the other types that hang on the wall.

The German 'springer', to use a colloquialism, is a cheap derivation of the Vienna; some dealers even call them Vienna regulators (as did I when I first got one, my first antique clock). Although broadly similar in shape but shorter and invariably more ornamented because that suited the later gothic style, the springer is so called because it is powered by springs rather than the weights found in a 'true' Vienna. The gridiron pendulum was a token attempt to enhance the regulator feel but in most case did nothing at all to combat the effect of thermal expansion. And the solid hardened steel pallets of the Vienna's deadbeat escapement were replaced by a bent metal strip. Consequently, time-keeping is only average and certainly not of the standard expected from a Regulator. But they are impressive-looking and you get a lot of clock for your money. The strike is often very loud so they ideally suit a hallway and they remain collectable provided they still have the original finials and the original crown that sits loosely on top. But if you can afford to spend a bit more, look for a slimmer weight-driven Vienna Regulator instead, even a German one.

One alternative to the springer is an American wall clock. Curiously, they are often more expensive that the German ones though to my mind not as well made. I've said before that American clocks can often sound like a bag of spanners when the strike train operates but that said, the American ones cater for a wider taste as they come in various styles, including many that incorporate a calendar, too. But the use of the word Regulator emblazoned across the front is no less optimistic as timekeeping is no better than the average American clock.

By comparison, wall clocks from the Edwardian period look far more austere and are still much cheaper, often changing hands for seventy five pounds or less and for that you'll get a sedate striker that is quieter than its American counterpart. But for the same money or little more, I'd go for a dial clock with a simple non-fusée Smiths movement I think. No strike, but it looks a good deal more attractive even if no more accurate. Servicing costs are the same.

Another striking wall clock is the Dutch Zaandam clock, which is powered by two brass, pear-shape weights that hang from long chains below what is often a sturdy wooden case featuring a statue of Hercules. Sadly, the reproduction case often houses a modern German movement from Hermle.

Old Edwardian clocks seem to be undervalued because they aren't to everyone's taste. But be cautious about buying a used modern one with a Hermle movement that has not been recently serviced as they simply don't last. Avoid non-working ones altogether unless you factor into your overall budget the cost of a replacement movement.

Have a look at Prices next. Most paid for work is guaranteed.


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