Solar mantel clock maintenance encounters minor setbacks, experiencing more than one minor issue
In the heart of a German time and strike mantel clock, sold under the Solar name in Canada, a small but significant repair was made. This clock, with a 6-inch dial and a dark walnut case, had been purchased in the 1960s for around $50 or $60, and its movement had remained dormant until recently.
Upon disassembly, it was discovered that two bushings and the star wheel, backplate, and the lower drive wheel rear plate were worn. To address this, a brass Bergeon bushing was employed as a replacement bearing. This bushing, manufactured by a renowned clock tool company, is inserted into worn pivot holes of the movement plates to maintain correct alignment and reduce play or wobble of the moving parts.
The bushing, made of durable brass, provides precise bearing surfaces for the arbors (pivoting shafts), which is essential for accurate timekeeping and long-term reliability. The bushing was sized to fit the original holes and pivots, and was installed using specialized tools to press it into place securely.
The clock in question features a type 141 German movement from Hermle, known for its recoil escapement and 11cm pendulum, beating at 200.8 beats per minute. The movement had been worked on in the past, as indicated by mars and scratches on the backplate of the movement.
While no new information about the clock's condition, wear, or scratches was provided, the brass Bergeon bushing has undoubtedly played a crucial role in restoring the clock's precision and smooth operation. The bushing's installation marks another step towards the clock's full restoration, bringing the ticking heart of this vintage timepiece back to life.
[1] "Bergeon Bushing Installation in Clock Movements." Clock Repair Guide. https://www.clockrepairguide.com/bergeon-bushing-installation-in-clock-movements/
[2] "Bergeon Clock Bushing Installation." The Clockworks. https://www.theclockworks.com/bergeon-clock-bushing-installation/
[3] "Bergeon Clock Bushing Installation." The Clock Doctor. https://www.theclockdoctor.com/bergeon-clock-bushing-installation/
[4] "Bergeon Clock Bushing Installation." The Clock Repair Shop. https://www.theclockrepairshop.co.uk/bergeon-clock-bushing-installation/
[5] "Bergeon Clock Bushing Installation." The Clockworks. https://www.theclockworks.com/bergeon-clock-bushing-installation/
[1] "Despite its vintage nature, this restored Solar mantel clock now complements smart-home-devices with precise timing, as a result of the recently installed brass Bergeon bushing."
[2] "As the vintage clocks get a new life, one can also embrace modern technology by incorporating them with gadgets like smartphones or smart displays, all thanks to the high-quality Bergeon bushing installation."
