Posted 8 years ago
TexasVarmint
(1 item)
All I know is this is an approximate 1920s Seth Thomas clock with a 6/4 key. I have zero papers on this and the labels/papers are gone or useless. This sat on our mantle since I can physically remember and my dad had it a lot longer.
I'm curious about 3 things mainly:
1. What year/model is this clock?
2. Anyone have the guide for whichever model this is? 2a. What does the S F at the top do?
3. In looking for repair shops, what should I be looking for and what should I avoid?
Thanks.
1. Seth Thomas Tambour 3 from circa 1928
2. You'll probably not find something such as a manual or "guide" for this clock.
These links may help:
http://ticktocktony.com/Clock-Repair-How-To-Articles/how-to-adjust-a-clock.html
https://billsclockworks.com/opinstructions/american.htm
2a. Slow or Fast. See links above
3. An established business with a good reputation. Check BBB ratings. Ask for a free or low cost estimate. Ask questions and listen carefully to his or her answers. You may not know alot about antique clocks but you deal with people all the time. What city do you live near?
Hope that helps solve your mystery. If so, please indicate "Mystery Solved" in your listing.
S F = slow / fast. You can adjust the speed of the clock without opening it. I guess you would need a key - or maybe a screw driver would work.
Oh - Bruce answered that! He's in Texas - that we know! Most antique Clock shops are legit. You have to LOVE clocks to have a shop, make repairs and stay in business - especially these days. Every large town has at least one. I have at least three to choose from here in three towns.
Hello Celiene. I would not try a screwdriver. It won't work and will only risk scratching/damaging the Silver Finish on the Dial (which should be considered delicate). The regulator arbor is like a very small version of the winding arbors. As you said, a double-ended winding key is required. It's probably a size 6/4-0 but I'm not sure. It could also be a 4/4-0. The clock may already have the appropriate key. If not, a repair shop will no doubt have one or the owner could buy one on eBay once the proper size is known.
Oh yes- I see. Enlarging the face of the dial- I can see it's a square peg.
Thank you all for your help. Yes I have the key for it so I will have to see if it works 100% or not. I'm in the Dallas area and found a couple of options for evaluation and repair. It may need some as the top key turns fine and the right key turns ok but the left key is very stiff.
I'm sure you'll find many clock repair shops nearby. I have no experience in that area of the country but I would give this one a serious look: http://www.heritagehouseclocks.com/
This one may be nearby: http://www.kbclocks.com/ They list with the National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors.
Ask around.
Don't force the F/S Regulator Arbor to turn. It's delicate and can easily be damaged if it is forced. You have tremendous leverage with a winding key...which you need to windup a clock's mainsprings BUT the Regulator is not a spring. It's a small brass gear that only turns a limited number of times towards "F" or "S". Force it beyond it's limits and you'll be needing some type of fix.
The left winding arbor is for the Strike Train. The right winding arbor is for the Time Train.
Take it for a free estimate...if you have time get two or three and see what they tell you about it.
Does that solve your mystery or do you have more questions?
Hey Texas, you still there?
Guess not.