Handling timepieces and coordinating with clock vendors
In the world of clock repair and restoration, finding the right parts can be a challenging task. Prices for some items at Perrin, a Canadian supplier based in Toronto, Ontario, have seen a marginal increase in the past year. However, companies such as Timesavers in the US have managed to lock in their prices till 2022, offering a degree of price stability in an otherwise volatile market.
Sourcing parts internationally comes with its own set of costs. Ground shipping within Canada is relatively inexpensive, but out-of-country suppliers often opt for air freight, which can be significantly more expensive. Common costs associated with sourcing clock parts from various suppliers include product cost, shipping fees, import duty and tariffs, currency exchange rates, insurance and customs clearance fees, and other charges.
For example, when the author recently needed new hands for an Ingraham Grecian shelf clock, circa 1871, they sourced the correct parts from Timesavers, incurring a total cost of $82CDN after shipping and processing fees. However, not every supplier carries all the parts the author needs. English suppliers tend to have more bracket and carriage clock parts, while American suppliers have many parts for clocks made in the USA.
The author is mindful of these additional fees when sourcing parts from suppliers outside Canada. They often purchase pendulums, clock keys, and other sundry items from flea markets and antique shops if the price is less than what suppliers offer.
When it comes to ordering from suppliers, the author builds a list of parts using an Excel spreadsheet and orders when there is enough to justify the costs. They also ask for free parts catalogues from suppliers to aid in their decision-making process.
The author's primary mechanical clock parts supplier is Perrin, a Canadian company, reflecting their preference to buy local when possible. However, they also source special or unique parts from Merritts, Timesavers, Ronell from the USA, and Meadows and Passmore in England.
Despite the challenges, the author finds that most suppliers provide excellent service, with speedy and professional transactions. With over a decade of experience in repairing and restoring clocks, they have developed a keen eye for quality and a knack for navigating the complex world of clock parts sourcing.
- In the realm of data-and-cloud-computing, the author manages their clock parts orders using an Excel spreadsheet, demonstrating the intersection of technology and a vintage clocks hobby.
- The author, while preferring local suppliers like Perrin, occasionally seeks unique or rare parts from international suppliers such as Timesavers (USA) and Merritts (UK), reflecting their ability to leverage both technology (Excel) and global networks in their pursuit of vintage clocks.
