The first two photos show serious casting flaws in the wheel work. This
very large void was found in the main wheel of the hour strike train. This wheel is
subject to the greatest stresses from the weight that hangs upon the barrel directly
connected to this wheel. It is now known that a weight of 65 lbs. is needed on this wheel.
It is unlikely this part would have functioned over a long period of time without failure.
Another indication that this movement had never been brought to a successful conclusion
and thus into regular service.
It is hard to see why, when what otherwise was
demonstrated to be a competent maker, he would have continued to cut the teeth on the
wheel after discovering this serious defect, yet alone mount it to the arbor and install
into the movement.
This smaller void was found on the third wheel of the quarter strike
train. In both instances these voids were filled with new metal and are nearly impossible
to see.
Several holes were found in the cast iron base. The two larger holes
carried though to the other side (next photo) leaving the impression that maybe something
like an arbor or rod of some sort went clear through. The purpose(s) of these holes have
never been ascertained and these were filled before repainting of the base.
The inside of the holes are not threaded. They are not smooth. Indicating
that they were drilled and then left open for the entire life of the clock, allowing the
insides to develop a corroded surface.
These holes are further discussed in the section dealing with the
replacement of the strike fly fans. All open holes in the
brass strike and going train frames were filled.
Here is seen the motion works and hour snail. It was decided that in
keeping with the style of the rest of the wheel design, the motion work wheels should be
spoked in a similar manner. The snail has curious two, different sized holes. It
would have been better to simply leave it in the solid. The snail was spoked to match the
rest of the quality of the movement.
The following three photos show the base and frames restored to their
original elegance with all extraneous holes filled.
Restored wheels and pinions. It's important to note that the wheels were
riveted to the pinions not screwed to collets. (A curious anomaly in what otherwise was
very high quality wheel work). The restorer took the extra effort to part these pieces so
as to properly clean and refurbish these parts. All the work is first rate.
The various clock parts after polishing and ready for
reassembly.
