Discussion Title: Tick Talk Tuesday #28 - Exploring the Purpose and Dual nature of the Key in Question
In the world of vintage clocks, a fascinating discovery has been made by an enthusiast who shares a similar Gilbert tambour clock with the Normandy Chime. This intriguing piece of history dates back to the inception of the Gilbert Clock Company, which began its clock-making journey in December of 1828.
The Gilbert Tambour style mantel clock model 2041, a prized possession for many collectors, is a marvel of mechanical engineering. One of its distinctive features is the keyhole under number 12, a detail that has sparked curiosity among clock enthusiasts. However, online searches have not yielded any relevant information about this keyhole and its role in the clock's functionality.
General clock mechanics knowledge suggests that keyholes near the dial are often used for regulating the speed of clocks. In the case of the Gilbert Tambour style mantel clock model 2041, it's highly probable that the keyhole under 12 serves the purpose of fine-tuning the clock's speed. By turning the regulator clockwise or counterclockwise, one can adjust the clock's speed, making it run slower or faster, respectively. This adjustment helps keep the clock accurate.
However, without specific manufacturer documentation, this explanation relies on standard clock design principles common to similar mechanical mantel clocks. For exact instructions or details, consulting the original Gilbert clock manual or an experienced horologist specializing in vintage American mantel clocks would be advisable.
In a recent estate auction, a vintage Gilbert tambour style clock fetched a successful bid of $25 + tax and buyer's premium. TD, another enthusiast, purchased a Gilbert Clock, model 2041, from an antique store in an unspecified location in Wisconsin. TD inquired about the keyhole under number 12 on the clock, adding to the growing interest in this enigmatic feature.
The Gilbert 2038 tambour clock, another model that has been worked on by the author, features a rod gong with two striking hammers. The key that comes with the clock should ideally be a doubled-ended one. The small end of the key fits into an arbor just below the "12."
Working on Gilbert movements, the author has found that each one has slight differences. The author has provided advice on clock concerns through letters and comments and even has a profile of a clock in "Tick Talk Tuesday #27." The author advises being careful with old clocks, as they can be addictive.
Disassembly of the Gilbert movement requires the removal of some parts to separate the plates. It's essential to handle these delicate pieces with care to preserve their historical significance. As the fascination with Gilbert clocks continues to grow, so does the quest for understanding their intricate workings. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a curious beginner, the allure of these timekeepers remains undeniable.
The Gilbert Tambour style home-and-garden decor piece, the 2041 model, with its unique keyhole under number 12, is a subject of interest within the vintage clocks community, as it might hold a secret to the clock's functionality. Curiosity around this keyhole's purpose persists, despite limited information available online, suggesting potential for further discoveries in the lifestyle realm of vintage clocks enthusiasts.
