Repairing the Gilbert 2038 tambour clock, specifically focusing on the Normandy Chime mechanism.
In a recent acquisition, a vintage Gilbert Model 2038 8-day mantel clock with the distinctive Normandy Chime found a new home. This American-made clock, reminiscent of the old bells of Normandy, was purchased at an estate auction for just $25, including tax and buyer's premium.
The clock, with its plain yet not unattractive design, harks back to the period of its creation. It boasts an 8-day cycle and the mainsprings are in good shape, providing plenty of motive power.
Servicing such a clock requires a general approach, as specific details on the disassembly and servicing of this particular model are scarce. Here's a step-by-step guide to servicing a similar clock:
1. **Preparation**: Ensure you have a clean workspace and the necessary tools, such as a mainspring winder, clockmaker's screwdrivers, and a jeweler's loupe.
2. **Disassembly**: - **Remove the Dial and Hands**: Carefully take off the hands and dial to access the movement. You may need to pull the dial straight off or use a dial puller. - **Remove the Movement from the Case**: Unscrew or release the clips holding the movement in place. Gently lift it out of the case.
3. **Servicing the Movement**: - **Clean the Movement**: Use a soft brush to remove any debris. For more thorough cleaning, use a mild cleaning solution and a soft cloth. - **Oil Points**: Apply a few drops of clock oil to the pivot points and gear teeth. Use a pipette to avoid over-oiling. - **Replace the Mainspring** (if necessary): Use a mainspring winder to remove and replace the mainspring.
4. **Chime Mechanism**: - **Normandy Chime Adjustment**: If the chime is not striking correctly, adjust the chime hammers and their striking points. Ensure they do not interfere with other components.
5. **Reassembly**: - Reverse the steps for disassembly, ensuring all parts are securely fastened.
6. **Testing**: Hang the clock and test its timekeeping and chime function.
If you encounter specific issues or require detailed instructions, consulting a professional clockmaker or specialized horology resources may be necessary.
The clock in question is the model 2038, also known as the Normandy Chime. It features a bim-bam strike or Normandy Chime, as described in Gilbert's sales catalog. This clock has a rod gong with two striking hammers, and the top arrow in the next photo indicates a disc for the bim-bam strike. The bottom arrow shows an L bracket for the passing strike.
Thousands of these clocks found their way into North American living rooms and front parlours, making them a common sight in homes of the past. The Gilbert Clock Company, which produced this clock, was established in December of 1828.
As with any restoration project, there are challenges to overcome. In this case, the clock requires a door catch repair, as mentioned in another article. The double ended key is a topic discussed in Tick Talk Tuesday #28.
In conclusion, servicing a vintage clock like the Gilbert Model 2038 8-day mantel clock with Normandy Chime can be a rewarding endeavour. With patience, the right tools, and a bit of knowledge, you can bring these timekeeping treasures back to life.
In the realm of vintage treasures, the Gilbert Model 2038 8-day mantel clock, notable for its Normandy Chime, shares space with modern smart-home devices and gadgets in the vast expanse of technology. Despite their differences, both the vintage clocks and smart-home devices require careful expertise for maintenance: the former with its intricate chime mechanism, and the latter with its complex digital circuits.
As the profile of smart-home devices continues to rise, so does the appeal of vintage clocks, such as the Model 2038, to collectors. These clocks, like modern gadgets, hold histories of their own, offering glimpses into the past while reminding us of the enduring allure of vintage designs.
