Syrian-Style Ansonia Parlor Clock Continuation Part II
In the heart of the Victorian era, the Ansonia Syria parlour clock stands as a testament to craftsmanship and timekeeping. Recently, one such clock, a machine-carved oak beauty in the Arts and Crafts style, found its way to a skilled horologist for servicing.
- Disassembly
The first step was to carefully remove the clock movement from its case, noting the position of each part. Each step was documented or photographed to aid reassembly, as antique clock movements are delicate and complex. The hands and dial were removed to access the movement fully. The movement was then disassembled piece by piece, keeping parts organized for a smooth reassembly process.
- Cleaning
The movement parts were cleaned using a mild detergent solution designed for antique clocks to remove old dried oil, dirt, and corrosion. Small brushes and pegwood were used to clean pivot holes and gear teeth, while avoiding harsh chemicals that might damage brass, steel, or delicate parts. Thoroughly rinsed and dried components were set aside to prevent rust.
- Inspection and Trouble Spots
Pivots and bushings were inspected for wear, with worn pivot holes requiring potential rebushing. The mainsprings were checked for fatigue or damage, which may have necessitated replacement. The escapement was examined for worn teeth or misalignment, and any bent or broken teeth on gears were noted. All locking pins and screws were checked to ensure they were intact and secure.
- Reassembly and Lubrication
Parts were carefully reassembled in the reverse order of disassembly. Pivot points and other moving surfaces were lubricated sparingly with clock oil specifically made for fine movements. The escapement, springs, and timing accuracy were not lubricated to prevent interference. After reassembly, the movement was tested to ensure smooth, quiet operation and continuous running.
- Final Steps
The dial and hands were carefully reinstalled, and the movement was returned to the case, ensuring it was securely mounted. The clock was set, and its performance was monitored over days or weeks, noting any irregularities in timekeeping or striking.
Potential Trouble Spots:
- Worn or damaged pivot holes requiring rebushing.
- Mainsprings that have lost tension or are broken.
- Misaligned or dirty escapement, which can cause irregular tick or stop the clock.
- Bent or missing teeth on gear wheels.
- Over-oiling or using incorrect oils causing gumming or attracting dust.
Because the Ansonia Syria parlour clock is an antique, if you are unfamiliar with clock repair, consider consulting an experienced horologist or clock repair professional to avoid damaging delicate components. Proper cleaning and servicing can preserve both the clock’s function and value.
In this specific case, the strike side gears did not move after reassembly due to a bushing that was too tall for the plate. Two bushings were needed for the reassembly of the movement, and the third screw was attached after placing the time side wheels and the hour gear. The stop pin was re-positioned on the strike side to make everything work as expected. The movement was mounted on a test stand overnight to check the time side.
The clock in question, with its great sentimental value to the owner and a history in her late husband's family for a number of years, appeared to be in good condition after cleaning, inspection, and reassembly.
As a vintage clock specialist, I embarked on a journey to service a 19th-century Ansonia Syria parlour clock, a marvel of craftsmanship. I meticulously disassembled the clock, noting every piece's position for seamless reassembly. After a thorough cleaning using a suitable antique clock detergent, I inspected the movement for potential trouble spots, focusing on worn pivot holes, damaged mainsprings, misaligned escapements, and broken gear teeth.
Post-inspection, I carefully reassembled the movement, lubricating surfaces with clock oil while maintaining precision in order to preserve the clock's originality. After testing for smooth and quiet operation, I reinstalled the dial and hands and returned the movement to its case. I monitored the clock's performance over time, ensuring it continued to keep accurate time.
In the process, I encountered an issue with the strike side gears that required replacing two bushings and adjusting the stop pin for proper functionality. Despite this hurdle, the clock, steeped in emotional significance for the owner and having been part of her late husband's family for years, appeared in good condition following servicing, providing a valuable reminder of the past amidst the hustle and bustle of present-day fashion-and-beauty, food-and-drink, home-and-garden, and lifestyle trends.
