Restoring Wall Clock in Mauthe (FMS) - Phase II - Servicing the Mechanism
In the quaint town of Parrsboro, Nova Scotia, a local family recently discovered a hidden gem in their attic - a 100-year-old German FMS Mauthe wall clock. The clock, dating back to approximately 1898-1905, was in need of some tender loving care.
Upon closer inspection, the minute hand was found to be soldered to the arbour, a somewhat uncommon practice in these clocks. This method, while simplifying production and potentially enhancing durability, posed challenges in repair and maintenance. The arbour on the second wheel of the strike side was also discovered to be slightly bent.
The clock's movement, though not serviced in some time, was in generally good condition. The recoil escapement was adjusted to correct the beat, and the movement was disassembled and cleaned in an ultrasonic cleaner. The solution became very dirty, indicating the accumulated grime from years of disuse.
Several issues were uncovered during the restoration process. An enlarged pivot hole on the star wheel was found on the strike side, and four pivot holes required attention. A broken suspension spring was replaced with a new one, and three bushings were inserted to replace worn-out ones.
The pallets and escape wheel showed little wear, while the pivots had very little wear and polished up nicely. However, the strike side remained sluggish even after the new bushing was installed. A hollowed punch tool was used to straighten out the bent arbour, and the minute hand was adjusted to point in the correct direction.
The back plate of the clock bore several numbers, including the number of beats per minute (105), the length of the pendulum rod in centimeters (42), a patent number issued to Heinrich Kielmann in 1890/1 (55006), and a production run number (20934). The Adler gong on the clock, adorned with the FMS eagle, indicated that the clock was manufactured between 1898 and 1905.
The restoration process was not without its challenges, but the end result was a beautifully functioning timepiece that will continue to keep time for generations to come. The soldering of the minute hand to the arbour, while initially beneficial, proved to be a double-edged sword, making repairs more complex and potentially causing unforeseen issues. Nevertheless, the clock's unique history and charm make it a prized possession in its new home.
- The family's discovery of the vintage clocks in their attic led to an exciting home-and-garden project, as they embarked on the task of clock restoration.
- Once restored, the 100-year-old German FMS Mauthe wall clock will surely add a touch of vintage elegance to their lifestyle, complementing their collection of gadgets and technology.
- The clock's unique design and challenging restoration process are a testament to the craftsmanship of the past, offering a glimpse into the intersection of tradition and innovation in home-and-garden DIY projects.
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