Advice for a newbie

Posted: Fri Jan 30, 2009 8:26 pm     Post subject: Advice for a newbie

I'm a complete newbie who is going to be building a grandfather clock.

I am extremely experienced with woodworking, having built every piece of fine furniture and cabinetry I own, but only so-so with clocks. I did build a working clock out of wood when I was 12 and in the Boy Scouts after having seen a film at school that explained how clocks work. It didn't work well, but it worked. Every gear was carved, and my plan was only some rough sketches I did in my school notebook.

There is an Urgos 9-tube movement for sale on ebay, and I'm seriously considering buying it. It's at:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT&item=190282547275

Is this a good idea? Would I be smarter to buy a new Hermle or Keininger movement, although they'd be more expensive?

Posted: Fri Jan 30, 2009 10:16 pm     Post subject:

Don't quote me - but I think Urgos no longer manufacturers. If this is the case - spare parts may become more complicated to find through the years. Again - I am not certain of this info - so you may wish to wait for another reply...

Posted: Sat Jan 31, 2009 3:07 am     Post subject:

I would purchase a brand new movement, or a antique movemnet that has been serviced. The newer clock movements don't last long, and in some instances are cheaper to be replaced than fixed.

Posted: Sat Jan 31, 2009 4:45 am     Post subject:

Chris: Yes, Urgos has gone out of business. But from what I've been able to find out, the movements they made were very good quality.

But I'm hoping to get a practical evaluation by folks who are familiar with it.

Posted: Mon Feb 02, 2009 9:57 pm     Post subject:

I have also heard Urgos movements were of great quality - - But (no matter what) parts wear with time. Again, spare parts may be a problem. Then again, you can always look for another clock movement to pilfer parts from - - sort of like that little robot who lives on future Earth cleaning up our garbage in that movie made by that famous company who has provided family entertainment for over 60-70 years...

Just want to steer clear of any copy-write infringement…