Clock mechanism repair work for Waterbury Arion timepieces
In January 2016, a Waterbury "Arion" Small Octagon Short Drop wall clock, made around 1930, found a new home. This time-only movement clock, with a solid oak case measuring 19 inches long by 12 inches wide, has been a source of interest for its owner due to its robust build quality, despite the challenges that come with its steel-plated movement.
Steel-plated clock movements, while offering greater rigidity and potentially higher durability, require more diligent maintenance to prevent corrosion. They are less prone to deformation under stress and have stronger pivots compared to their brass-plated counterparts. However, they are susceptible to rust and corrosion without proper protection and maintenance, and are more sensitive to environmental humidity.
Brass movements, on the other hand, are traditionally preferred for their good corrosion resistance and ease of machining. Some brass alloys with controlled zinc content provide a good balance of durability and cost. However, they can wear out bearings and pivot holes faster if the zinc content is high, and plates may be less rigid compared to steel, potentially affecting accuracy if misaligned.
To ensure the longevity of this vintage clock, effective maintenance and servicing should focus on preventing rust and ensuring the pivot and bearing surfaces remain lubricated and free of wear. Regular cleaning to remove dust and old lubricants, use of a suitable light clock oil on all pivot points, inspecting bushings and pivot holes frequently, and avoiding harsh chemicals or water exposure are all crucial steps in maintaining the clock's performance.
The serviced Waterbury clock was put on a test stand for evaluation after the mainspring was cleaned, oiled, and reassembled. Five bushings were installed in the movement, including two on the verge, one on the third wheel back plate, and two on the second and fourth wheels front plate. A 3.5 mm bushing with a 1.90mm inside diameter was used for the third wheel pivot, with 3.00mm OD bushings used for the other pivot holes.
The owner, aware of the challenges posed by steel-plated movements, has found that they can be problematic due to their tendency to attract tarnish and risk of rusting. In light of this, the owner prefers movements plated with brass or nickel to prevent tarnishing and rusting. The owner also advises anyone interested in clock repair to source a mainspring that is correctly sized for the movement being worked on.
Despite the maintenance requirements, the owner has no plans to replace the mainspring due to its cost for a $40 clock. The clock dial is 8 inches in diameter and marked with "Waterbury" and a black and gold pendulum aperture, adding to its vintage charm. The clock, now serviced and equipped with new bushings, is set for years of reliable running.
This article reflects known distinctions between steel and brass in clock construction and maintenance needs, combined with common practices for maintaining antique American clocks like Waterburys, which often feature robust build quality but steel components demand careful corrosion control.
Vintage clocks, such as the Waterbury "Arion" Small Octagon Short Drop wall clock, require careful maintenance to ensure their longevity, particularly if they have steel-plated clock movements, which are more prone to corrosion and rusting compared to brass-plated counterparts. Smart-home-devices and technology advancements have not yet extended to traditional clock repair, making traditional maintenance practices, like regular cleaning, inspecting bushings and pivot holes, and ensuring smooth pivot and bearing surfaces, crucial. As the owner of a vintage clock equipped with a steel-plated movement, gadget enthusiasts may find themselves preferring movements plated with brass or nickel to prevent tarnishing and rusting.
