Smith Enfield (bakelite) mantle clock needing attention?

If you have a natural fine mechanical talent you can do simple things to clocks; if not, you can destroy them a hundred different ways. Ask me: I can prove it.

Zencali Nidhi
February 2011

Margaret, if you haven't yet done anything to your clock - don't! Your clock needs to be thoroughly cleaned and inspected before you oil anything. The price you have been quoted does seem rather steep (but not unknown for a qualified service).
You really need to read up on clock repairing before you damage the clock or yourself!!!!
(www.djbrown.co.uk)

Dennis (Devon)
October 2009

Thank you very much for your kind replies.
I did enquire at a jewellery/clock repairer, but they wanted £135 - which I though was a bit steep,
so decided to have a try myself (with help from the rest of the world!) . How do I gain access to the workings? From the rear door, I cannot reach the bearings.
Not mechanically minded - but willing to have a go - if told in layman’s terms.

Many thanks,
Margaret.

Margaret
September 2009

I have been working on exactly the same model today. The clock was fully wound but would not go.
I found the mechanism clogged up with a mixture of dust and dried up oil. There is also a considerable amount of wear as these clocks were made with fairly soft steel which wears (in 30to 50 years!). You need to take the clock to a reputable repairer as it will need some bushings (new bearings) and various adjustments thereafter. You will be able to get a quotation for the repair if you ask for one. All the best.

Bill Leslie. Australia.
September 2009

give EACH bearing a tiny spot of light oil they are DRY after 50 YEARS .

wirecutterman
September 2009