Restoring a Pequegnat clock and its mechanical movement
The Pequegnat Clock Company, with its roots in Kitchener, Ontario, was a leading Canadian manufacturer of robust and reliable mechanical clock movements. Operating from 1904 to 1941, the company's clocks are renowned for their steel plate movements, often nickel-plated to resist corrosion.
Characteristics of Pequegnat Movements
Pequegnat movements were primarily constructed using steel plates, a departure from the brass plates commonly used in American and European clocks of the time. The steel plate construction gave Pequegnat clocks a ruggedness and durability suited to Canadian conditions. The nickel plating served as a protective layer against rust, enhancing longevity and maintaining smooth operation.
Compared to German clocks made post-1930s, which often used thinner brass with more zinc content and plated pivots, Pequegnat’s steel movements were heavier and more durable, designed for long service life and easy repair.
Servicing Pequegnat Movements
Servicing Pequegnat movements typically involves cleaning and oiling pivots and pinions, replacing worn bushings, and careful adjustment of the escapement for accuracy. The thickness and hardness of the steel plates reduce wear to pivot holes, making movement rebuilding less frequent than in lighter brass movements but still requiring expertise in machinist skills for precise bushing and pivot repairs.
Nickel plating requires careful cleaning with non-abrasive agents to preserve the coating; aggressive polishing can remove this protective layer. Mainsprings in Pequegnat clocks were usually overbuilt and reusable. Servicing often includes checking spring tension and lubrication to avoid breakage.
Exploring the Pequegnat Collection
The Pequegnat Clock Company manufactured both movements and cases, making their clocks a complete package. In a collector's possession, a Pequegnat movement might come from a variety of clocks, such as the Canuck, the Hamilton Tall, or the Kitchener-made Arthur Pequegnat Bedford.
The Canuck, a gingerbread style clock, is not particularly sought after by collectors, but the Arthur Pequegnat Bedford and the Hamilton Tall are highly regarded. The Pequegnat story also includes the Maple Leaf series of kitchen clocks.
The servicing of a Pequegnat movement ensures that it will run for many years to come. Despite the passage of time, the Pequegnat name may not be familiar to international readers, but for Canadian clock collectors, these clocks hold a special place. With their durability and traditional craftsmanship, Pequegnat clocks continue to tick away, standing as a testament to Canadian manufacturing quality from the early 1900s through mid-century.
- A vintage Pequegnat clock, with its robust steel plate movement and nickel plating for corrosion resistance, makes a great addition for individuals who appreciate lifestyle items blended with historical artifacts.
- When exploring the world of fashion-and-beauty, books, entertainment, food-and-drink, home-and-garden, and vintage items, a well-maintained Pequegnat clock serves as a unique conversation starter, drawing attention to its timeless, high-quality craftsmanship.
- For those who savor the pursuit of hobbies like clock collecting, presents, gifts, and the beautification of one's home, a Pequegnat vintage clock could be an appealing addition for its durability and distinct Canadian heritage, adding a touch of character to the home-and-garden setting.
