Hermle or Kieninger or?

Posted: Tue Apr 21, 2009 6:58 am     Post subject: Hermle or Kieninger or?

Hello all. I'm new to clock movements, but not to antique clock cases/furniture.

I have longed after an 18th century bracket clock for decades, but I can't afford the quality of clock I admire, so I thought I would bite the bullet and make one.

I have settled on a typical broken arch pad top case which shouldn't present any problems to make (I've already cut some 2.5mm thick veneer from an 18th century mahogany table top), however, I'm not a clocky per se and I haven't a clue about modern movements. All I know is that I want a movement as close to 18th century spec as possible, so that rules out movements with gongs.

Kieninger's PF key-wind movement and Hermle's W0150.081 movement both have two bells. Is there a clear winner between these two manufacturers? Am I even on the right track? Are there other manufacturers or movements I should consider?

Dials for this type of clock are normally in the 7"-8" range - do Kieninger or Hermle (or anyone else) make suitable Roman-numeral dials, or am I on my own with this project? I could be swayed to incorporate a circular dial instead of a square/broken arch dial, but then I'd also have to source a suitable hinged bezel and glass.

Any thoughts or input would be very welcome.

Posted: Wed Apr 22, 2009 2:20 am     Post subject:

I thought only Kieninger made grandfather clock movements, at least looking at a current price sheet in the US that is all they list.

The Hermle is about the best you are going to find for your clock.

You may also want to consider buying a newly restored period antique clock movement.

The problem with dials today is that you have a very limited selection to choose from (they also lack the heft of an old dial), unless you have one custom made. It sounds like this is what you want.

Have you seen this book?

ENGLISH BRACKET CLOCK BOOK JOHN TYLER MERIDIAN 1991

Posted: Thu Aug 13, 2009 2:20 pm     Post subject:

Agreed. Ever since Howard Miller bought Kieninger, all they've done is try to make the movements as cheap as possible.