Reply To: Old English Longcase Clock

[Bob Tascione]

Beautiful clock! You sure find GREAT deals Paul!

Yes you can add weight until it runs but there is an easier way. If you purchase a spring scale (hanging scale) up on ebay or Amazon you can determine the weight very easily. Secure one end of the scale to the bottom of the case or if this isn’t possible just put a bunch of weight in the bottom of the clock case and tie it to the scale and then attach the top of the scale to the pulley hook. You can then begin slowly winding the clock while moving the pendulum back and forth. When there is sufficient tension to run the clock just add a little bit more tension and check the scale. Should get you close enough to then go out and locate a weight. They can still be purchased from supply houses. Here’s a pdf just for reference: http://www.aberle-stahlguss.de/downloads/aberlestahlgussenglish.pdf
Of course when doing this test the clock needs to be in the best shape possible. Any bushing, pivot and pallet polishing etc. should already be done.
The pendulum shouldn’t be a big problem as it’s just a seconds pendulum. A few good pics of the back of the movement (and escapement) would help to determine what type of pendulum is needed. When you decide to tackle the job we can go back and forth up here with some ideas for determining bob weight, suspension spring length and strength etc. It will be a fun project!
Might be able to find some hands for it but making them with a jewelers saw and files isn’t too tough and is a fun project. The style can be determined from the calendar hand. Brass??
Research on this clock might help narrow down the style of weight and pendulum so I’ll check a few books here and will romp around online later today. You’ve probably already begun scouring the internet and may have found some good info on it so please pass it along if you have some.
Again…really nice clock!!
Bob