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December 8, 2016 at 12:54 pm #49884
I had a gentleman call me today to see if I can service his bavarian cuckoo clock. He stated that it is still in running condition just needs to be cleaned(which as we know that is never just the only thing). I have no pictures or other information other then that it is a bavarian cuckoo clock as I haven’t called him back. My question is does anyone have any experience with these as I have no experience with cuckoo clocks(its on my list of clocks to learn) and was wondering if someone who has worked on other clocks would be able to service this type of clock? If so how much do you think one should charge for this job if it is infact only a clean and an oiling? I would like to take this job on as it would expand my abilities, but I dont want to screw myself and not be able to come through for this guy. thanks
December 8, 2016 at 2:25 pm #64151Hey chaplin37, Not sure what you have there..
Cuckoo clocks…even simple ones…can be frustrating, then add the possible music mechanism, and other moving apparatuses…..I would suggest a few things….First, none of us has ever worked on all the different styles of clocks, getting closer everyday BUT a customer would be asking alot if they expect us to have worked on their rare style clock many times before…2nd, being up front with your customer and letting them know you have not worked on that particular style before usually gains more trust up front….If your able let them know what you have done and how you go about things in your shop it is left up to them to have you work on it or not…
My process of dealing with customers may be completely different than yours…I have a certain way that I go about it all with my customers…totally transparent, up front, very thorough yet can be time consuming…I have found it to be best for my business…
using photos and study of the function before doing anything to a unfamiliar movement is always good practice….
as far as charging consider this, if you do the job your getting paid to learn something new….dollar per hour doesnt count..I think your least concern is what to charge… do not put yourself in a predicament…a unsatisfied customer is going to cost you more in the end…….dont be afraid to say no if your uncomfortable!
In the end it may be best for you to get a few cuckoo clocks of your own,,,,give it a try…tell the customer your working on that area of your business and will let them know when your ready…Just my thoughts, let us know what you decide. Have fun….
December 8, 2016 at 9:12 pm #64152I agree with William. A customers clock is no place to learn especially cuckoo clocks. When I apprenticed under the gentleman I learned clock repair had me take apart and repair 3 cuckoo’s before he would let me do a customers. One was just a cuckoo, one had a music box and one was a cuckoo and quail. They are a different breed of cat so to speak and have their quirks. Adjustments have to be precise. Like William getting paid for something you have never worked on is the least of your worries. I would get a couple of cuckoo’s off ebay for little or nothing. I would get one with a music box and one regular. When you are comfortable then I would think about doing his clock. Just my $1.298.
December 9, 2016 at 9:02 am #64153Thanks guys, yes i did inform him on the phone that this would be the first cuckoo clock that i would be working on and he was cool with it. I think as William stated I’m going to not take this job on and advise him that I am working on obtaining the knowledge to do cuckoo clocks.
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