Precision adjustments in clock repair form an integral aspect of the process
In this week's Tick-Talk Tuesday, we delve into the intricacies of a fascinating find - a vintage Mauthe wall clock. The clock, acquired from a flea market outside Peterborough, Ontario, is a German "box" clock, but it does not bear the Mauthe trademark or name.
Despite not having been serviced since 1979, the movement of the clock is in very good overall condition. This is evident in the smooth ticking of the seconds hand and the consistent movement of the minute and hour hands, albeit somewhat faded.
The Mauthe wall clock is unique, with an applique of a maple leaf on the crown, suggesting it was made for the Canadian market. A clue to its origin is the two-rod gong, which was made by Divina, a subsidiary of Mauthe.
The clock's mechanism is complex, with two critical adjustments before assembling the plates. The placement of both the stop or warning wheel and the star wheel are crucial to ensure the clock functions correctly. During the strike, if the star wheel is not correctly positioned relative to the two hammer arbours, one of the paddles may become hung up on a star point, causing the strike to malfunction.
To correct this issue, the mainsprings must be let down for safety reasons, and the plates pulled apart enough to relocate the paddle lever arbours so that both paddles are between the star points. The stop or warning wheel requires about half a rotation to arrest the train during the warning phase by means of a stop pin.
The Mauthe wall clock is a common type of clock, and it's interesting to note that it was likely sold under the Forestville or Solar name in department stores across Canada in the 1940s. However, despite extensive research, the specific common Canadian store brand under which Mauthe box clocks were sold in Canadian department stores during that period is not clearly documented.
Restoring a Vintage Mauthe Clock is the title of a two-part series offering initial impressions of working on a Mauthe time and strike movement. As we continue to delve into this fascinating piece, we'll share more about the process and the unique challenges of bringing this vintage clock back to its former glory. Stay tuned for more updates on this intriguing restoration project!
In the realm of home-and-garden gadgets, the restored Mauthe wall clock would undoubtedly be an appealing addition, showcasing a blend of vintage clocks and technology. As one delves further into the lifestyle of clock repair, the intricate mechanics of the clock movements, such as the stop or warning wheel and star wheel, become key focal points. Furthermore, the unique origins of the Mauthe clock, with its connection to Divina and potential Canadian department store sales, add an exciting layer to the story of this vintage find.
