Waterbury Ogee Repair Guidance - Learning the Solutions for Your Waterbury Ogee Issue in Tick Talk Tuesday #28
In the heart of a collector's home, an 1870 Waterbury clock with two front doors awaits restoration. The owner, AS, embarks on a journey to service the 30-hour Waterbury Ogee clock, hoping to complete the task in a relatively straightforward exercise - specifically, to replace the ropes and weights.
For beginners like AS, the search for information on the internal structure of the clock online can prove challenging. However, with patience and the right resources, the repair process can become clearer.
Here's a step-by-step guide to replacing the ropes and weights in an 1870 Waterbury clock:
- Remove the old ropes and weights gently: Open the two front doors to access the clock's movement and weights. Carefully unhook the weights from the pulleys or attachment points and cut or untie the old ropes. Handle the clock and its parts delicately, as antique clocks can be fragile.
- Identify rope type and length: For an 1870 Waterbury clock, a strong braided cotton or nylon rope suitable for clock weights is best. Measure the old rope length or estimate by allowing the new rope to reach fully when weights are lowered, with some extra length for tying knots.
- Attach the new ropes securely: Thread the new rope through the pulley system inside the clock, tying secure knots (such as a double knot or a bowline) at both ends to hold the weights. The rope should run smoothly without snagging on any mechanism.
- Reattach the weights: Hang the weights on the ropes, ensuring they match the original pair or are of similar weight and shape to maintain clock timing.
- Test the clock movement: Slowly raise the weights by winding the ropes and release the pendulum, if applicable. Confirm the clock runs properly, chimes as expected, and the ropes move smoothly without slipping or fraying.
For additional guidance, review any available diagrams or manuals for Waterbury clocks from the 1870s for clarity on the rope and weight system. Antique clock repair forums and tutorial videos (especially those involving Waterbury or similar bracket clocks) can be valuable for step-by-step guides. If uncertain, consulting a professional clockmaker is recommended because mishandling can damage the clock mechanism.
This advice is based on general knowledge of antique weight-driven clocks like those made by Waterbury Clock Co. in the late 19th century. Specific repair manuals for this particular model were not found in the search results; however, the basic principles of rope and weight replacement remain consistent for such clocks.
For those interested in learning more about clock repair, the National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors (NAWCC) operates a free clock forum site. Steven Conover, a renowned author in the field, has several books on clock repair, including one focusing on time and strike movements.
This article marks Part 1 of servicing the 30-hour Waterbury time and strike movement. The journey to restore this beautiful antique clock continues, and AS is eager to learn and share the process with fellow enthusiasts. Stay tuned for more updates!
- AS is a collector who owns a vintage Waterbury clock from 1870, which they plan to repair by replacing the ropes and weights.
- The repair process can be complex for beginners, but with patience and the right resources, it can be made clearer.
- When it comes to shopping for new ropes, braided cotton or nylon ropes that suit clock weights are ideal for an 1870 Waterbury clock.
- In the home-and-garden section, one can find resources on how to replace the ropes and weights on such vintage clocks, or seek guidance from antique clock repair forums and tutorial videos.
- AS, intrigued by the repair process, intends to share their experiences in restoring the antique clock with other enthusiasts as they continue their journey in learning more about clock repair and lifestyle.
