Syrian Saloon Clock Continuation - Second Installment
Restoring an Antique Ansonia Syria Parlour Clock: A Detailed Journey
In a meticulous endeavour to restore a cherished piece of history, a skilled clock technician undertook the task of reviving a machine-carved oak Ansonia Syria parlour clock from the late 19th century. This exquisite timepiece, adorned with the Arts and Crafts style, holds great sentimental value to its owner, who wished to preserve the original case as it had been for years.
Disassembly
The first step in the restoration process was the careful dismantling of the movement. The hands, dial, and movement were gently removed from the case, and the movement was systematically disassembled. Arbors, gears, springs, and plates were taken apart, with a keen eye towards maintaining the order and orientation of each part. Let-down keys and screwdrivers were used to manage the mainsprings, while tweezers ensured the delicate pieces remained unscathed.
Cleaning and Inspection
All parts, excluding the delicate springs, were immersed in a clock-cleaning solution to rid them of old oil, dirt, and grime. Ultrasonic cleaning was employed for smaller components to ensure a thorough clean. After rinsing and drying, each part was inspected for wear, with particular attention paid to the pivots and bushings.
Addressing Worn Areas
Worn pivots and bushings were either replaced or re-bushed as needed. The mainsprings were assessed for fatigue or damage and were replaced if necessary.
Reassembly
The movement was then reassembled in reverse order, with light clock oil applied sparingly on pivots and lubrication points. Great care was taken to ensure that gears meshed correctly and the movement ran smoothly when tested by hand.
Testing and Repositioning
After complete reassembly, the clock was tested for proper operation, including striking and timekeeping. The mainsprings were restrained before opening up the top part of the strike side, allowing for the locking wheel to be repositioned. The stop pin was re-positioned so that it rested on the stop lever, ensuring everything functioned as it should.
Overcoming Challenges
The strike side gears were found to be stationary, with the flywheel (governor) displaying sluggish performance and no end shake. Upon investigation, it was discovered that a past repairer had installed a bushing that was too tall for the plate, causing the strike side gears issue. The protruding bushing on the inside of the plate was filed down to allow the strike side to run smoothly. The strike side wheels and levers were worked into place, but syncing the strike side locking wheel was not successful on the first attempt.
Final Touches
The movement was mounted on a test stand overnight to check the time side. The time side wheels and the hour gear were attached, followed by the addition of the third screw. The past repairer had marked "S" (for strike) and "T" (for time) on each wheel according to their location, aiding in the reassembly process.
Continuing the Journey
While there are no specific resources detailing the process for disassembling, cleaning, and reassembling an Ansonia Syria parlour clock movement, general horological practice for antique mechanical clock movements can serve as a guide. For detailed, specific instructions and diagrams tailored to the Ansonia Syria parlour clock movement, it's best to consult specialized clock repair manuals, horological forums, or published guides on Ansonia clocks.
Horological books focusing on Ansonia clocks, clock repair courses or video tutorials specializing in pendulum or parlour clocks, and forums such as NAWCC (National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors) offer valuable resources for those seeking detailed step-by-step guides. If you have access to Part I of the series, it might contain foundational steps, while Part II likely covers cleaning, lubrication, and reassembly details.
With patience, dedication, and the right resources, this antique Ansonia Syria parlour clock will once again chime to life, preserving a piece of history for generations to come.
- The clock technician's lifestyle revolves around intricate processes and precise techniques, as seen in the restoration of the vintage Ansonia Syria parlour clock.
- As the restoration of the clock progresses, the technician realizes that fashion-and-beauty or home-and-garden might be the last things on their mind, as they delve deeper into the mechanics.
- While working on the clock, the technician encounters unexpected challenges, similar to the obstacles that might arise in relationships or cars, requiring patience and problem-solving skills.
- Parts of the dismantled clock might need to be cleaned in food-and-drink quality materials, to ensure that no contaminants damage the delicate mechanisms.
- Upon completing the restoration, the fully functional clock, with its ticking and chiming, would be a valuable addition to any home-and-garden, symbolizing the joys of shopping and the appreciation of historical artifacts.
