Well, while you should not expect any of your clocks to be worth 20 million dollars, you might still be able to make a nice sum off of selling one, if youre so inclined. If it is battery powered or electric, the pendulum is probably decorative and does not need to be adjusted. tick . English carriage clocks are high quality, but very big. Gregory, These clocks are fun and there is always a lot more to learn! Vintage Valentines That Celebrate Old-Fashioned Love. Any advise on how to fix it? If. However, Hammond stayed with the manually started clocks and advertised the advantages: In an age of very frequent power outages, a self starting clock would stop when the power went off and then restart when the power came back on sometime later. I want to call someone to come look at it so hopefully, we can repair it. thanks again.. jim, That's great that you were able to get it to keep better time! You probably will have to do a little filing to get the hook to properly fit the pendulum leader. Any thoughts or suggestions would be gratefully received. It has "active" half-hour striking,. Move pendulum to the left or right until the escape wheel escapes from one pallet to the other. If you are near Sedro-Woolley feel free to bring it by during regular business hours. If, however, it doesnt quite function as well as it used to anymore, there is still something you can do about it! 2) The clock adjusts timekeeping by shortening or lengthening the acting length of the suspension spring which passes through two chops that pinch the spring and that move up and down when you turn the thumb wheel. I suggest you contact the Rhythm Clock repair line at 770-640-6311. Thanks so much for your information regarding clocks running fast or slow. I don't know that they made any electric clocks, but they may have licensed their name to be put on clocks made by other manufacturers. I have the nut adjusted to the very lowest position w/o falling off & it still gains about 30 minutes per 24 hours. . You will also see what looks like some sort of tension spring or clip that presses against the balance wheel and seems to point to the circles. This is the adjustment pointer. To correct this open the back door and GENTLY pull straight down of the pendulum (which normally swings back and forth). . How can I fix this? Be careful however, many do not. The violin shape is a unique and impressive design that will surely draw the attention of any bystanders. Does it still keep time properly? 9 "Empire". At first, as a carpenter/joiner apprentice, Thomas work consisted of building houses and barns. haha! I put a small file upside down in a vise so the tang is pointing up. :). JavaScript is disabled. . Thanks in advance for any help given! If so, this would detract from the clocks worth. 20"l x 6"w x 9"t. estate & personal property > 1/23 . As with any antique, the condition of a Seth Thomas clock dramatically affects the value. . Seth Thomas (1785-1859) had been manufacturing clocks at the site since 1814. Ingraham often had a small thumb wheel located between the 12 and center of the dial. $45.00 . Refer to the View A and View B in the illustration above and follow the steps below to put the clock in beat. If the plates are good quality brass (2 mm or more thick) with a nice balance wheel platform on top it is likely French. My clock is running fast/slow. This clock was sold in an outstanding original condition, and its case was constructed from walnut wood. Clearly, its main selling point would be its aesthetical value. I tried screwing it back on but could not do it. Then I fit the bushing onto the tang and turn the hand until it is adjusted properly. Any advice or instruction on how to put this adjustment nut back? I appreciate the tip you shared about sliding the bob up or down to make your cuckoo clock move again. The. Or you can always bring the clock in. $65.00 + $20.00 shipping . If you look into the back of the clock, on the top of the movement will be a very small gear that the adjusting key turns. If you havent had any luck yet, try to look for a metal plate. Clocks are designed to run and keep time with the pendulum having room for adjustment. much since it will drip in the case. Look over our list of most common questions and answers. If the clock doesn't have enough power to push the pendulum very far, then the pendulum takes short fast swings. Hence, its also the type you are most likely to have. var year = today.getFullYear() You will notice a "+" and "-" stamped in the brass on either side of the balance wheel. Either the pendulum is too short or it isn't getting enough swing. $7.69 . A friend's brother in Calgary AB is a clock fanatic and got my mum & dad's wedding present (1950) working again. Total:2,856 (members:76, guests:2,780), Most visitors online was 4107 , on 14 Jan 2023. This is reducing the power that reaches the pendulum. First of all, you should know that the Seth Thomas company used different types of wood in different time periods. To be specific, you might find this on clocks built between 1881-1888, or from 1913 onward. Your statement about quartz clocks not being able to be adjusted. $32.33 + $12.85 shipping . Patrick, "Time is too slow for those who wait, too swift for those who fear, too long for those who grieve, too short for those who rejoice, but for those who love, time is eternity. In this blog I answer commonly asked questions about how to care for your clock. like so many beats to an hour etc.? Has it been cracked, crazed, or just poorly restored and damaged in the process? . My clock is running fast/slow. The numbers are the year backwards. Once back together, I checked the hands, the bob, the rod, the verge, everything there is straight and not rubbing. Please tell me which way to turn the arbor. Seth Thomas Adamantine mantel clock with ornate lions on the side and footed design. Is there anything else l can do to length the pendulum besides taking it to a repair shop. Open front door and remove the plastic safety bushing (see picture 2). Antique Seth Thomas clocks offer a quick glimpse into the world of skillful clock decoration and a clock-making culture that has survived for centuries while maintaining a significant position as one of the finest earliest clocks in the antique universe. These clocks keep time by counting the number of swings of the pendulum. It starts out on time and then as the day goes on it looses time. Thus as the movement becomes worn, the push the gear train gives to the pendulum is decreased, but the drag on the pendulum during locking is also decreased, so the arc of the pendulum can actually increase and the clock can slow down. Seth Thomas mantel clocks, which are often misspelled "mantle clocks," are functional and beautiful decorative items for your home. I have been having trouble with my anniversary clock and I think it might be smart to take it in to get it repaired professionally to make sure I don't accidentally make it worse. But it gains 5-7 minutes every 24 hours. what to do if the clock runs fast when wind and then slows as it runs throughout the week? For instance, a code of 2981D would indicate a clock that was made in April of 1892. These stamps are a series of numbers and letters, and they can be difficult to decode. How to Regulate Your Clock for Fast & Slow. Thats why you stopped the clock. my seth thomas mantel clock has a balance wheel and is running fast it picks up about 30 minutes over night. Use a pair of calipers to measure the small timekeeping adjustment arbor and also the winding arbors (in millimeters). Fast-forward a few years, after producing thousands of clocks, Thomas had sold his interest to his business partner; he then opened his own clock factory (in 1813), purchased the rights to manufacture Terrys shelf clock, and even built his own mill. There are a multitude of sites dedicated to Seth Thomas and I encourage you to visit them; however, for the purposes of this post it is our first important piece of information. If the key doesnt turn at all, you are winding in the wrong direction. All rights reserved. 5 Count the number of strikes. Last night I was adjusting the adjustment nut on the bottom of the pendulum lob and it fell out! More specifically, its ticks at about 105 instead of 120. Remove carefully all packaging material and securing devices such as rubber, foam, paper, etc. If there isn't enough power pushing the wheel back and forth, the wheel will not turn very far. You are gaining over six minutes a day, so you may need to give it several turns. Moreover, it still had the original metal dials, directions, label, and even the engraved pendulum mentioned above. Last night, my best friend told me that he and his friend were planning to buy a JB Stamp Barrel Head Clock that he could install in his art studio for better appearance, and he asked if I had any thoughts on what would be the best option to consider. Condition: Minor expected surface wear associated with age and use, otherwise in overall good condition. On clocks that have a front adjuster, the adjustment range is a relatively short amount. Seth Thomas Mantle Clock speed adjustment? Thanks for your page, I have learned a lot! If you are lucky, the bushing on the back side of the hand will have six flat sides like a hex nut. verge and escape wheel combos Home Escape Wheels and Verges Escape Wheels and Verges Escape wheels such as Kieninger escape wheels and Seth Thomas escape wheels are available here at Perrin's. We also have an array of different verge combinations to suit your clock repair needs. PDF Subject: SETH THOMAS CLOCK REPAIR MANUAL It's immensely important to begin read . (Price Guide), Antique Teapots Value (Identification & Price Guides), Antique Coffee Grinders Value (Identification & Price Guides), Funko Pops Value (Identification & Price Guides), Antique Pie Safe Value (Identification & Price Guides), Limoges China Marks (Identification & Price Guides), Antique Madame Alexander Dolls Value (Identification & Price Guides), Benrus Watch Value (Identification & Price Guides), Antique Blue Willow China Value (Identification & Price Guides), Antique Car Blue Book (Car Value & Identificatiron), Old Buttons Value (Identification & Price Guides), Skeleton Key Value (Identification & Price Guides). Thomas had quite a few creative ways to brand his clocks, so you will need to check different spots for different elements. You then need to gently nudge the clock to get the pendulum swinging. Ive stripped down and cleaned the movement and re-oiled all the pivot holes. I guess I need to know more. I have tried removing the pendulum and rotating the little flywheel to the top and to the bottom as far as the thread will allow but neither extreme seems to make much difference. Finally, to highlight some mantel clocks, the two most valuable clocks are both Pillar & Scroll mahogany case clocks that sold for $4,600 and $3,000 respectively. Most have a recoil escapement that turns the gear train backwards just slightly as the pendulum swings past the tick or tock but before it reverses direction. How to date a Seth Thomas mantel clock? All Rights Reserved. Most clocks from this era did not use an electric motor; they used a rotor. It all runs nicely after reassembling it but its losing a couple of minutes per day. A thiner spring will allow the pendulum to turn more and run slower. I am passionate about restoring and repairing antique clocks. How can I get it to run correctly? Not 5 mins slow or fast but 10 to 15 either way. Thank you sir. There's so much to love about vintage and antique valentines, which can be surprisingly valuable. The result is that the clock runs fast. If you clock is running fast, lower the bob. The center hole powers the time train, which makes the clock keep time. Take your LEGO sets from the brick bank to the bank on your corner! I have a nutcracker German Clock; I can turn with key clockwise, but does not seem to turn counter clockwise; how do I slow the pendulum down and how do I keep it going; and how do I move the hands to set initially? The pendulum nut is all the way up and Ive adjusted the pendulum weight to the top of the pendulum. one end winds the clock and the other end (small end) adjust for speed. If your glass is still in good condition, though, you can consider yourself lucky! This is probably your problem. (Daisy bell song) If the first explanation is true, then your clock is running properly; if the second explanation is true, you probably need to take you clock in to be serviced. I found an anniversary clock in a thrift store that needed a new suspension spring. Fortunately, this should be a rather easy process, as many Seth Thomas clocks happen to feature date stamps on the bottom of the clock. The most important factor other than the date is the condition of the clock. It also has many of its original elements, including the original glass, signed dial, and a clean label. So, for example, a code that starts in 5481 indicates that the clock was made in 1845. Learn about the materials used, the styles, and how to assign a value to these beautiful clocks. Antique Seth Thomas Rosewood Mantle clock. I have a couple Timex watches that have a variable capacitor across the crystal to trim the crystal frequency. Any time you are messing with hairsprings, a lot can go wrong. It is "started" by "winding" a small stem protruding from rear of clock by using two fingers and turning it. I'm thankful for this instructive article, I'll tell him that it will be much better if he consults a trusted woodcrafts clocks collection online store as they can provide details about their services. I was hopeful it had done the trick, it was a small device for the extention attached to the pendulum at the top end. I have an old cuckoo clock that runs but the pendulum carving is all the way up to the base of the clock and it still runs a bit slow. Login / New Bidder Browse By All Auctions All Auctions (Map) This short video also shows how to re-set a clock if if is out of sync. How do I adjust the time keeping? I straightened that as well. Fortunately, they are relatively cheap. The final element of the date is the letter that comes after the numbers. Thanks! Hi Mike If it is uneven (tock . A very large, limited edition Seth Thomas mantel clock from the early days of the clock maker's history sold for $2,000 on eBay. Not certain if the alarm works due to lack of knowledge on how to set and . Again remember to grasp the hand close to the bushing when making this adjustment. Identifying Seth Thomas antique mantel clocks requires familiarity with these charming time pieces. Reset the clock by moving the minute hand clockwise until you reach the correct time. The worn pivot holes result in increased friction that reduces the power available to push the pendulum back and forth. To speed up a clock you must make the effective length of the pendulum shorter; to slow down the clock, the pendulum length must be longer. The beginning of the week it is fast and by the end of the week slow. To reiterate, the most straightforward one would be the date stamp. We had a power outage for three days. There should be an equal amount of time between each (tick . The curved part of the pallet is called the locking face or the dead face. If the curve of the locking face is made correctly, the escape wheel rides against the curved face for most of the swing of the pendulum and only moves once the tooth slips off of the locking face onto the flat angled impulse face that gives a short push to the pendulum. How do you set an antique Seth Thomas mantle clock? Rhythm does not make parts available to other repair centers. You probably have a clock with a "floating balance". The Seth Thomas clock that sold for the third-highest price (of $17,110) is a tall regulator wall clock, dated around 1900. Bid now on Invaluable: Rococo Style Seth Thomas Metal Mantel Clock from Nye & Company on January 5, 0123 10:00 AM EST. Good luck. Author. . It will have ST with a circle around it for a logo. Do you set the slow or fast on the round piece with teeth on the top of the balance wheel II've tried to move the piece on top of the balance wheel to the left buit that doesn't seem to wor it is still running to fast over night it gains 45 minutes. A man with a clock always knows the time. The snail is a weirdly shaped cam that looks a lot like a snail shell. Hi, This would be the counter-clockwise direction. Best regards, A pendulum with too little swing will tend to run fast. Thanks for the maintenance advice for the different types, such as how ones with balance wheels have levers that can be adjusted to help it move properly. -Up Clock Franz Hermle 350-060 Movement Works OMAS MODEL 1314-00 LEGACY-3W / WITH A FRANZ . Enjoy reading your comments. TOP OF LINE.. Case Size: 12" H x W 7.5" x 5.1" Depth. How do I adjust the time keeping? Thank you for any advice. After the function of the clock, you need to look at the condition of the wood. Enjoy the Fourth of July. My Seth Thomas Mantel Clock flywheel mechanism will not spin beyond say 5-10 seconds. tock). In fact there is no name brand either. My windup and pendulums quit every December. Why does a clock run fast when it isn't getting enough power? Unfortunately, this may have a negative impact on the value of your clock. tHERE IS A SMALL ROUND PLATE WITH LOOKS LIKE TEETH ON TOP OF THE BALANCE WHEEL, BUT THAT CAN'T BE WHERE YOU SET THE SLOW OR FAST. Oh, my. Seth Thomas Collectible Desk, Mantel & Shelf Clocks 1920-1949, 2002-2023 LoveToKnow Media. What else can I do? Ive improved the accuracy by shifting the small lever on the escapement to F but I cant shift it any further now and the clock is still losing about a minute per day. The Seth Thomas Clock Company was in business from 1853 to 2001. Time takes its toll on all of us in winter. Naturally, not all of them have the same value either. But would moving the fork closer to or farther away from the regulator pivot do more? Hi, I just had it serviced, but I had to go all the way to El Paso Texas to do the service because there are no clock repair shops in Las Cruces NM and I'm about 40 miles West of Las Cruses. 4 Advance the big hand to the 12 o'clock position and stop. Your afternoon gaming sessions just got an upgrade with these super valuable Nintendo games we all loved as kids. Recommendations for a clock movement stand. Hi I have a Smith Enfield Clock Westminster chime it looses seven miniuets a day, I tried adding length to the pendulum with a small device which then started to make it slow by seven mins; again. On the rim of the wheel you will see a bunch of circles. Perhaps it is cracked, or chipped, from continued use? Take a look at your clock and think about what it is made from. Some escapements are dead beat escapements even some cheap bent strap escapements that could be in a cuckoo clock. You can find the label on the inside, back, or bottom of the clock case. In their version of an atomic clock, Seth Thomas uses an internal chip to offer the same autosetting features of true, radio-controlled atomic clocks. When I received the clock it will only strike the half hour on its cathedral gong. Having some vintage-looking items would definitely help with that. Over the years, the designs changed, giving collectors some clues when it comes to identifying and dating the clocks. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. I am unsure how to set the time. However, when the chiming becomes less pleasing to the ear, an adjustment is required. My recently purchased grandfather clock is delaying even after I did rotate the pendulum nut to the maximum. Sometimes, Thomas etched his name onto the pendulum. . To be more specific, it would be the clocks that were actually made by Seth Thomas himself that are actually worth the most. Vintage Seth Thomas Chime Wood Mantle Clock 1298-001 With Key WORKS: $179.00. Ronell Clocks, Timesavers, and Merritts Antiques all carry double ended clock keys. I replaced the AA Energizer Batteries in the Clock Movement and still the hands haven't moved. If not, there are many great clock repair technicians out there. With a tweezers, move the pointer towards the "-" to slow it down. Fix by: Anonymous 514 Poplar Street It's great that you mentioned that to adjust a Grandfather Clock's speed with a time adjustment nut, I should loosen the nut to slow it down and tighten it to speed it up. Turn the nut to the left to lengthen the pendulum and to the right to shorten it. How to synchronize the striking on a Seth Thomas tambour mantel clock from the 1920's. This clock strikes the hour and half-hour on a cathedral gong. The key here is to ignore clocks that are still for sale. Thank you. If you didn't know the power had gone out, you wouldn't know that your clock was inaccurate! Ideas? Thank you. 2 Check your clock against accurate timepiece or computer If you have any other questions or remarks, feel free to comment below! Next, you have the clock face condition. I think I figured out how to fix the first problem from your answers above, but the second problem has me stumped. Please cut rubber band with a pair of scissors. If you cant find one, you might also be able to tell from the paper label or construction. It's interesting that sliding the bob on a cuckoo clock actually speeds up and slows the time. These clocks usually only have one winding arbor or weight. 2. It is running about 3 hours slow. I am interested in selling the clock and would like to know the cost to get a n appraisal to determine a reasonable price to ask. Beyond that, it also happens to be a rather early design, created in September 1885 (according to the date stamp). Can you tell me what I have? You can try www.KensClockClinic.com. Description: Seth Thomas Mantle Clock - Tampa. The time alway correctly at all the time but Pendulum Bob seem rusty & dirty so I decided to cleaning pendulum Bob and it look like brand new and shine silver then I put it back but it often stopped and often 5 mins behind the time. Sometimes oil can decrease the friction, but usually the wear must be corrected to return the clock to proper time keeping. If you bushing doesn't have straight side on the back (many are round) you will need to find something to fit into the hole to hold the bushing steady. Simply hold the bushing still with a wrench and turn the hand the distance needed so that when you put the hand back on the clock, the hand is pointing straight up at the 12. However, when the clockmaker Eli Terry noticed his woodworking skills, he hired him to join his clock-making business (in 1807). I have been told it can't be repaired due to lack of clock motors . Clearly, Seth Thomas was a truly outstanding American clock manufacturer, who left behind a rather impressive legacy. A bright, readable clock face is a good sign; it means your clock is going to be worth more. ? Somehow I missed this. If you can get a sense of the date your clock was made, either from the label, style, or date stamp, you have an important factor in assigning value. Have you ever heard of Seth Thomas? Hi! Wow, I didn't know that there are speed settings that can be configured for grandfather clocks that are cuckoo clocks as well. However, from 1913 onward, they mostly used mahogany and oak. According to Cottone Auctions, the most valuable Seth Thomas clock sold for $20,160, at a 2021 auction. tock . The "newer" bob had evidently been added at some point in the clock's life to replace the stripped gear. The Antique Clocks Identification and Price Guide offers photos of many of the labels you may see, as well as dating information based on the style and text of the label. Beautiful Seth Thomas mantle clock in great working condition, chimes on the hour 1:00 one chime, 2:00 two chimes and so on, and chimes once on the half hour, nice crisp sound. Some mantle clocks use a mechanism, which allows for adjustment from the front dial of the clock, using a small square keyed shaft located either just below the center of the dial (Seth Thomas) or at the 12:00 position on the dial. Although the designs vary, usually clockwise will increase the speed and counterclockwise will slow the clock. The rack looks kind of like part of a gear (say a fourth). I doubt it's ever been looked at or cleaned. I found one on amazon. Which way would I turn it to make the clock slow down. (NOTE: The clock is level, as I have a small level and it shows that the clock is perfectly level). I have a 1920s Seth Thomas 8" ships clock. . Turn the key counterclockwise, while looking at the front of the clock to set the time. At first, they mainly used walnut veneer, so this type of wood could be a good indication that you have an earlier clock. What next I can do ? Antique Seth Thomas Sonora Chime 4 bell Chime set complete . It's picking up about 45 minutes over the course of 7 days. 1. My favorite part of this article is that balance wheels could be an alternative to pendulums, they handle the time of clock. The only other thing I adjusted was the screw/nut coming out of the bottom of the bob. That in turn means it's not getting enough power from the train. The seller claimed the clock chimed perfectly and kept accurate time. Would the repairs to get the hour strike and time regulated be a costly endeavor? The snail cam rotates once every twelve hours. Hi Mike, And yes, it was designed by Seth Thomas himself. Vtg Elpa Alcobaca Hand Painted Porcelain Bunny & Cat W/blue glass eyes set; Portfolio; My Dress-Up Darling - Marin Kitagawa Enamel Pin Collectibles Kevin . It is beautiful and means a lot to me but was running fast, I found your advice to adjust the pendulum and hope that I can adjust the speed Thank You. Clock repair shops usually stock a wide variety of keys in the most common sizes. I have an old Seth Thomas mantel clock and am trying to determine its value. would towards the A, in my case to slow the clock mean, turning Clockwise or Anti Clockwise? I found an old wind up mantel clock in an op shop. From 1888 onward, they started using both cherry and oak wood in addition to walnut. The time spent pushing against the locking face acts as a drag on the pendulum which decreases its swing. To adjust the regulation, the pendulum rating nut must be turned, and the amount depends on how much time the clock is in error. The clock has done much traveling - NZ to BC to AB and back to BC where it sites on my antic sideboard. Fill out repair form 3. As the clock speeds up, the owner loosens the pendulum nut to slow the clock down until the nut can drop off. One other important element of the clocks construction is the type of movement it uses. If you are in or near the Skagit Valley, I would be happy to look at it. 2) With a soft brush, rotate the balance wheel and release it. It can be made to run backwards or forwards by how the stem is twirled. One question you might have, as the owner of a Seth Thomas clock, is regarding the three holes that you can find on the clock. James Stoudenmire. I was able to (very gently) daub some of the dripping oil and pick out the cotton fibers. Unfortunately there is not an easy fix. The long answer explains why. Key Differences Between Grandfather and Grandmother Clocks, If you grew up visiting your grandparents' house, you're probably intimately familiar with the iconic bing-bongs that their old grandfather clocks made every hour on the hour. Good luck! I don't know of a good way of identifying unmarked clocks. One turn of the nut will regulate time keeping approximately two minutes a day. It then would have a time +/- adjustment. Any way to identify this clock? You'll also see stamped metal labels on some clocks, as well as engraved pendulums featuring the Seth Thomas name. Large 5 in. Thanks. Remember to grasp the hand as close to the minute arbor as possible. Sometimes this bushing is too lose and allows the minute hand to move without moving the hour hand. Nothing. Turn the key until it can be no longer be wound. Does it just need to be lubed/oiled, cleaned? Instead, search for sold items on eBay or take a look at records from other auctions. Alternatively, take a closer look at the clock face as well. My dad has been trying to figure out how to fix the time on our Grandfather Clock that has been with our family for generations. Any suggestions? First of all, there is the function of the clock. I use an Atomic Clock to check all my clocks time keeping. You will need to pay attention to a few factors for this: The first thing you need to do to check if you have a genuine Seth Thomas clock is to look for a label. They also tend to have an English type lever escapement with sharply pointed escape wheel teeth. In clocks there are almost always exceptions to every rule, so set the time, turn the dial to the right and see if the clock is slowing down. There is no lever as described above but I do have two nuts labelled s and f either side of the balance wheel. Is there an easy fix for this? Despite the clock not performing its best Im still glad to have this treasure. However, one that shows signs of rough use is not nearly as good of a sign. I ordered a pack of 3 and the lower block. Is this something I can adjust? On the movement plate the letter E is stamped inside of a large C. I have a mantle clock that runs slow and I need a key to turn it to fast. Some of the clocks Thomas built had his name on them, right above the number 6 on the dial. 1 Adjust your clock to the correct time Adjust your pendulum clock to the correct time and then set the clock on a level surface and check that it is wound appropriately or not. It also means that it is not available new, and made before 1950. I have a couple that I think you should check out: 1) Check that the clock is "in beat." ), Seth Thomas clocks are not being made anymore. Mike, Hi, Mike. There isn't a uniform rule about the direction you turn to adjust the time keeping. Sellers can ask any price they like for a clock, but that doesn't mean someone will pay it. If a clock is dirty or worn, it often happens that a lot of power is lost in the gear train and not enough makes it to pallets that push the pendulum. A short swing takes less time, so the clock speeds up. The clock mechanism was not tested. I have a gorgeous 1880's Ansonia clock which runs well and chimes well. Any suggestions would be appreciated. TimeSavers offers several books on clock repair that can help. Specifically, this clock had a walnut case, burl walnut accents, and a pagoda top, which are reminiscent of the older clocks. Vintage Seth Thomas Wood Mantel Clock Electric. Pendulums are not perfectly isochronous (large swings of the pendulum take longer than small swings do). Hello there, I have just bought a Rhythm 1960's-70's Japanese Space age pedestal clock in lovely condition but it's gained about 2 minutes in the last 3 hours now. Mike. It sounds like not enough power is getting to the pendulum. If you are near Mount Vernon, WA, please feel free to stop by my store. Vintage Seth Thomas Chime Wood Mantle Clock 1298-001 With Key and paperwork, WORKS. Beautiful maple-like finish with detailed Seth Thomas bezel. Thank you. Copyright You must log in or register to reply here. Are you sure you have the correct thickness for the spring? Ebay sale and shipping insurance - has this happened to you. I think I'll bring it in. There are several ways clocks can count the hours, but a common strike system is called the rack and snail. There are people who rebuild rotors. It won't take as long as it should to come back around, and the clock will run very fast. $150.00 0 bids $86.14 shipping 1d 10h or Buy It Now ", Ahh. Take heart there's nothing wrong. I had no idea that there was so much that went into these clocks! Reply to Ann Marie Teasedale . Thanks for the tips on how to adjust the time keeping on a clock that is running too fast or too slow. The styles also changed over the years. You can find the label on the inside, back, or bottom of the clock case. Its a 3 hole clock. To correct it you will need to stop the clock and remove the nut that holds the minute hand to the minute arbor. The most common reason is that the pendulum is simply way too short. 2 Wall Regulator Clock Super Antique Dial . To be specific, you might find this on clocks built between 1881-1888, or from 1913 onward. A man with two clocks is never sure. tick . Turn over the clock carefully and look for a metal plate that identifies the clock as a Seth Thomas clock. Do you possibly have an idea as to why the clock is not working as it should, as I know this is a long shot asking you a question when you can't see physically what is occurring at my end. I have a 38-year old wall clock that I purchased from South Korea and my wife's helper inadvertently dropped the clock, cracking the wood case when it hit the floor. Using an internal chip is particularly beneficial to customers who have difficulty using traditional radio-controlled atomic clocks due to interference caused by televisions, computers and many common building materials. var today = new Date() Both of these issues are best adressed by a competent repair person. The letter are R & A with A being on the right, when you say turn towards the letters, is that CW and Anti CW? It has very small wheel positioned below the 12. This is an unusual set up in a floor clock. up means half a twist of the nut. I have an old french mantel clock with a tiny shaft at the top of the dial but cannot have another clock i'd like to get running. This is something that you can find either on the back, inside, or bottom of the clock case. Place the key in the center hole to adjust the time on the clock face. I had forgotten we had two going in the same thread. These clocks have a balance wheel like a mechanical watch does. Seth Thomas Collectible Desk, Mantel & Shelf Clocks 1920-1949, My friend said her brother mentioned a way to stop it the clock gaining time and I found my way to your site. Hi. If you are in the Mount Vernon, WA, area, feel free to stop by! Your clock probably needs some professional care. In order to find one, you'd probably want to look online at different professionals to learn about their services and experience so you can find one that is able to fix your clock. I have got it running and fixed the striker but it only strikes once on each hour. Now that you have hopefully found a label, and have a good reason to believe you own a Seth Thomas clock, the next step would be to check its construction, which can help you narrow down its age, as well as further confirm it is a real Thomas clock. It plays music on an alarm setting. Simple Repair Process 1. Chime clocks are famous for the resonant melodies that play every 15 minutes. The first one is at the shop. My wife loves old wall clocks, and has a few that need to be repaired. Additionally, the movement will say made in USA. Id also like to mention when I got the clock the seller had placed a lot of packing material (cotton fiber) inside of the clock. (den) vintage seth thomas wood cased mantle electric clock. What did I miss, but he refered to a pendulum and adjusting nut. Apply the oil very lightly across the coils of the springs. I'm thinking about looking for a grandfather clock supplier soon because I'd like to make my home look a bit more rustic. Quartz clocks and electric clocks are designed to only run at one rate and you cannot adjust the time. Once the hand is adjusted properly, you need to tighten the bushing. Dial signed "Seth Thomas" 14-1/4"h x 8"w x 6-3/4"d. Skip to Main Content Toggle navigation. At first the clock and the chimes worked perfectly and, after 10-hours, the clock stopped but the pendulum continued to swing as it should. Mike. Adjust the timing on the clock according to the results of the timing test. If you havent found a paper label, another option would be to look closely at the pendulum inside the clock. [more like this] CLOCK: Seth Thomas mantle clock with chimes Current Bid: USD 9.99 Bid Online More Replacement Parts & Tools from auctioneer: ANTIQUE ANSONIA KITCHEN SHELF PARLOR CLOCK PENDULUM PARTS REPAIR 1 bids. So, if you still happen to have one, you can expect it to be rather valuable. This clock is over 50 years old. Clock face is protected by glass door. Check to see if there is a threaded rod projecting from the pendulum or if there is a pendulum nut in the bottom of the case.If this is the case, your clock needs some professional help. To help avoid accidentally dragging the hour hand, keep your finger close to the end of the minute hand while setting the clock. I completely repaired the clock case and purchased a new clock movement with chime box, assembling everything together. Instead, once an hour a pin on one of the wheels catches the tail of the hammer and strikes a bell or gong. Can i add some type of weight to the bottom of the nut to correct this? This beautiful 4-sided clock is estimated to be worth up to 20 million dollars. A repair would be the only option. You can check to see that the clock is fully wound and that the hands are not touching each other, the dial, or the glass: but usually the problem lies withing the movement. The plate should have a Seth Thomas label etching, and possibly a patent number. Reply. The NAWCC is dedicated to providing association services, promoting interest in and encouraging the collecting of clocks and watches including disseminating knowledge of the same. Some mechanical clocks (usually cuckoos) don't have an adjustment nut: the bob slides up and down the pendulum rod and is held in place by friction. If the nut is already at the top of the threads and can't be adjusted, you probably need to take it in to a professional clock repair technition. I'll share this with him so he can finally adjust it. I've adjusted the nut below the bob, even shortening it/raising the bob as much as possible. Trouble shooting is always a challenge. Note the small crack on one of the lions. It does have several scratches and a few dents. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Old Seth Thomas Mantel Clock Value (Identification & Price Guides), Antique McCoy Pottery Value (Identification & Price Guides), Antique Shaker Furniture Value (Identification & Price Guides). We hope this article helped you better understand the history, value, and method of identifying and dating your clock. This clock winds up with the key and appears to be in good condition. Pendulum doesn't have enough swing: Most mantel clock pendulums need to have at least 2 degrees of swing on each side of the at rest position. That is a sign that the clock needs professional attention. If you want to attempt that yourself, you can do some reading and searching here for bushing tips, or you could take the movement or the clock to your local clock repair man. My mantle clock (family heirloom) seems to lose 15 minutes but then keeps (the wrong time) any idea why it would do that? How do you correct my Seth Thomas mantel clock with a balance wheel to run slower. Following a thorough appraisal, Seth Thomas clocks can be sold on various platforms, from eBay to auction websites (or even in physical auctions). We have a Howard Miller Grandfather clock here at home and we have it since 1991. Hi all, It can also happen if one or more escape wheel teeth are bent or broken. Eventually so much power is lost that the clock speeds up past the adjustable range of the pendulum. After twenty-four hours, record how many minutes your clock is off. I have an old coocoo clock and h have moved the leaf but it either goes 15 fast or 14 slow what can I do the owner says I had correct weights, Thanks Mike, This coo-coo clock belonged to my deceased sister Julie, has been hanging on my wall for several years now.. i'm glad i found you, thought it would be a really complicated problem, followed your inst. help? It needs some TLC and will be back to looking its best. If you are interested in selling your clock, you need to consider the following: We have previously described the different methods you can use to determine your clocks date. Clocks that are dirty or worn rob power from the balance wheel. I'm hopeful that I will be able to get the right balance now! Thanks for your interest. find a key to fit it.Help. You may need to use needle-nose pliers if it is very tight. Normally a fast clock with a balance wheel means that the balance wheel is not rotating far enough on each stroke. Danette, This depends on the clock and the type of hands that it has. Re your paragraph on clocks with balance wheels - do you move the lever towards plus if the clock is running slow or vice-versa? Usually you turn the thumb wheel to the Left to make the clock run faster and to the Right to make the clock go slower. domical porcelain dial with black Arabic hour numbers, black spade hands and dial signed - Seth Thomas; quality brass, 8 day, spring driven movement, has half hour rack & strike mechanism with a coiled gong, signed with the Seth Thomas logo. Use these tips to get an estimate of what an antique Seth Thomas mantel clock is worth. As you probably know by now, the Seth Thomas Clock Company made clocks for a long time, of different shapes and sizes. If not, have you ever seen the Grand Central Terminal Clock in New York? Thanks. $20.00 . 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