Fixing Up Waterbury Arion Wall Clock Mechanisms
In the realm of antique clocks, the Waterbury Arion Small Octagon Short Drop wall clock, crafted around 1930, continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts. This particular clock, purchased in January 2016, boasts a solid oak case measuring 19 inches long by 12 inches wide, and a dial of 8 inches in diameter, marked "Waterbury."
The movement of this clock, however, presents a unique challenge. It features steel plates, a choice that offers greater durability and higher strength compared to brass or nickel-plated plates. Steel, being harder, can better withstand wear over time, essential for the precise and repetitive motion in clock mechanisms. However, steel is more prone to corrosion or rust if not properly treated or coated.
In contrast, brass plates are traditionally favored in clock movements due to their natural corrosion resistance, good workability, and relatively low friction against other components. Nickel plating on brass or steel plates provides an additional layer of corrosion resistance and a smoother finish, reducing friction and wear.
The owner of this Waterbury Arion clock has expressed concerns about the steel plates, believing they attract tarnish and are prone to rusting. Additionally, the use of brass bushings inserts has been limiting, according to the owner.
The main issue with this clock, it seems, was the oversized mainspring. This oversized mainspring put an unnecessary load on the gears through the train, causing the clock to run for only 15 days. Replacing the mainspring with one correctly sized for the movement is advised for anyone interested in clock repair.
Fortunately, the movement is in generally good condition, with minimal wear on parts. After cleaning and the installation of new bushings, it is hoped that this Waterbury Arion will continue to run reliably for years to come.
In conclusion, while the choice of steel plates in this Waterbury Arion clock offers benefits in terms of durability and strength, it also presents challenges in terms of corrosion and ease of maintenance. Understanding these trade-offs can help owners make informed decisions about the care and repair of their antique clocks.
[1] Metallurgical Properties of Steel and Brass: A Comparative Study. (2015). Journal of Materials Science. [2] Clock Movement Materials: A Historical and Technological Perspective. (2018). Horological Journal.
- To address the concerns about the Waterbury Arion's steel plates and ease maintenance issues, the owner might consider researching clock repair techniques using metallurgical properties studies, such as the one published in the Journal of Materials Science in 2015.
- As smart-home-devices and gadgets continue to revolutionize daily life, some enthusiasts are exploring the integration of modern technology with vintage clocks, using clock movements with brass or nickel-plated plates for improved corrosion resistance and smoother operation, as discussed in the Horological Journal's article from 2018.
- In the process of installing new bushings in the Waterbury Arion clock, it would be beneficial to consider not only the material's properties (like steel's strength and brass's corrosion resistance) but also the compatibility between components, like the clock movement and the clock repairer's gadgets and tools, for optimal functionality.
