Trying to find out more about this old wooden wall clock

Posted: Wed Nov 23, 2011 2:11 am     Post subject: Trying to find out more about this old wooden wall clock

I have this old clock that I'd like to get up and running, but I know nothing about it. It seems very old and I don't have a key to wind it. Any ideas on what to do with it to get it running? Thanks in advance for any help.

BTW, I think some of the gears are made out of wood. It's been a while since I've had a good look at it.

Posted: Wed Nov 23, 2011 2:37 pm     Post subject:

In America, wooden gear clock movements were primarily mass produced between the late 1700's and early 1800's. By the mid 1800's, more and more gears were made from brass rather than wood. I believe that this style of clock would be referred to as a "Gallery Clock", and I would guess that it dates back to the early 1800's (however this is just my opinion based on the style of the case, and the possibility that it has wooden gears).

I would examine the case to see if there might be any identifying marks which might note the manufacturer, model number, and/or year of manufacture. You could be looking for a certificate, woodburned logo, or even something hand-written. If you can get inside the case, check there as well as any wood pieces that are removable.

Posted: Wed Nov 23, 2011 5:10 pm     Post subject:

Chris, thanks for the help. I'll have a better look at it, and get some better pictures of the movement.