Refurbished Waterbury York Grandfather Clock with a New Cure for its Malfunctioning Strike Mechanism
In a fascinating tale of perseverance and mechanical ingenuity, a 1900 Waterbury York parlour clock, initially brought home with a non-functioning strike side, has been restored to its former glory. The clock, which had seen its fair share of repairs over the years, presented a series of challenges that might have discouraged most people from attempting a repair. However, with persistence and the right resources, the clock is now ticking and striking with precision.
The heart of the problem lay in the locking lever and stop wheel, which needed careful adjustment to ensure the clock could lock during the end of the strike sequence and strike correctly. The locking lever, a crucial component that controls when the striking train is stopped or allowed to run, required gentle bending or repositioning to improve its engagement with the stop wheel.
The stop wheel, which governs the pausing of the strike train, also needed attention. Wear or damage to its teeth could cause the stop wheel not to lock or release properly, leading to the strike train stopping prematurely or failing to strike. Cleaning, lubricating, and inspecting these points were essential steps in the repair process.
Once the locking lever and stop wheel were adjusted, synchronising the strike side became the next challenge. Testing the strike train confirmed whether the strike count corresponded to the hour. Manual advancement of the strike train or repositioning of the locking lever was necessary to ensure the strike was synchronised correctly.
Consulting Steven Conover's book, "Striking Clock Repair Guide," was instrumental in navigating the repair process. The book, filled with valuable insights, offered guidance on general principles of mechanical striking clock adjustment, even though there are no direct instructions specific to Waterbury York parlour clocks.
One of the most significant issues the clock faced was a crutch loop that was in contact with the back of the dial, causing it to stop. Resolving this issue involved pushing the crutch loop inwards towards the plate, ensuring the clock could run smoothly.
The pivots and pivot holes were in good condition, requiring no immediate need for bushing work. However, all five pillar screws were well worn, a testament to the clock's past life.
After multiple adjustments, the clock finally started to strike. Now, the Waterbury York parlour clock is running well, keeping good time, and its striking mechanism is functioning perfectly. This success story serves as a testament to the rewards that can come from perseverance and a keen understanding of mechanical systems.
The restored 1900 Waterbury York parlour clock, with its vintage charm, now stands as a testament to a lifestyle that values the preservation of historical items. The precision of its ticking and striking is a result of meticulous clock repair and servicing, overcoming various technical challenges. In the realm of fashion-and-beauty and home-and-garden enthusiasts, such a restored piece could be a valuable addition to their collections.
The gadgets and technology aficionados might find intrigue in the mechanics of the clock, an example of early mechanical ingenuity. For those with a passion for food-and-drink, this repaired clock could inspire a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of the slow, deliberate pace of a bygone era.
Travel enthusiasts, on the other hand, can imagine the beauty of this restored clock ticking away in a 1900s-themed bed-and-breakfast. Sports fans, too, can appreciate the perseverance and determination needed to restore the clock, a reflection of their own grit and determination on the field.
Regardless of one's interests, the journey of restoring the Waterbury York parlour clock serves as an inspiring tale, one that reminds us of the treasures hidden within our homes and the satisfaction that comes from bringing them back to life.
