Wanting to learn Clock Repiar --- How to Start?

Posted: Fri Feb 29, 2008 10:08 pm     Post subject: Wanting to learn Clock Repiar --- How to Start?

I work for a small clock shop, and while our store has its own 'repairman' who does the all repairs for the shop, I was hoping to learn a little myself on the side so when people bring in their clocks I can talk intelligently about their clocks.

Does anyone have any suggestions about the best way to begin? We handle mostly keywound mantle and wall clocks, and that is what I'd like to learn about.

I know its a huge subject, and that's why I am having a bit of trouble knowing where to begin. A book? A class? School? Do these things exist? I'm not looking to figure out everything in a week; I realize it would take years to become proficient. I just want to get my feet wet.

I saw online the American Watchmakers-Clockmakers Institute was offering a 'correspondence course' for $900. Does anyone know anything about that program?

Thanks in advance for any/all advice you can give!

Randall K.

Posted: Fri Feb 29, 2008 11:17 pm     Post subject:

Have you talked to the repairman to see if he will mentor you? Maybe he has a cheap clock you can play with/observe it working. Clock Movements are not that expensive, so you could purchase a clock stand and movement, and watch it go.

http://www.amazon.com/Clock-Repairing-Hobby-Harold-Caleb/dp/0832911186/ref=cm_lmf_tit_17_rsrssi0

http://www.amazon.com/Clock-Repair-First-Reader-Beginner/dp/0962045616/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1204326610&sr=8-3

http://www.amazon.com/Clock-Repair-Primer-Beginners-Handbook/dp/0962045608/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1204326705&sr=1-1

Posted: Sat Mar 01, 2008 4:11 pm     Post subject:

He works a full time job and does numerous overhauls for the shop every week. While a nice guy, I don' think he has the time or the inclination.

Are these books ones you've used yourself and know are good?

Posted: Sat Mar 01, 2008 4:50 pm     Post subject:

Yes I have read them when I first got interested in clocks. You should also check your local library as they might have clock repair books as well.

If you are mechanically oriented clocks are very easy to understand.

Posted: Thu Mar 06, 2008 2:44 pm     Post subject: Re: Wanting to learn Clock Repiar --- How to Start?



I constructed and operate the AWCI correspondence course, it is intended for people with experience and with no experience. The starter pack includes a simple clock movement that is there for the sole purpose of giving the student who has never dismantled a clock, something to practice on that is not valuable. That of course is just the starter. The course has sixteen course books or chapters on the various subjects covered and twelve exercises, ranging from simple accurate bushing to design and construction of a rack strike mechanism (no train).
Most importantly I am available by email and telephone to answer all questions on mechanisms and techniques on a one to one basis. The questions are not confined to the course content. So far we have had well over one hundred students in four years, far more than I hoped for at the start.
If you will send me your email address (mine is laurie_penman@hotmail.com) I will send you the information sheets.
Laurie Penman