Emergency for Clock Repair Enthusiasts - Invitation for Clock Parts Assemblers
In the pursuit of restoring a 1930s Fleet Time mantel clock to its former glory, the owner is in need of a replacement movement, specifically a mainspring barrel and second wheel for the time side of the clock. This task, however, presents a challenge due to the vintage nature and discontinued parts for many antique mantel clocks.
The Fleet Time Company, a little-known Canadian clock company that operated between 1936 and 1940, produced a range of two and three-train mantel clocks with movements sourced from Germany. The mainspring barrel of the owner's Fleet Time mantel clock has three broken/bent teeth, a broken mainspring, and a damaged leaf pinion on the second wheel, making it inoperable.
One possible solution is to turn to specialist clock repair shops and parts suppliers. Websites like Timesavers, Merritt’s, and Meadows & Passmore (UK) specialize in mechanical clock parts and may have compatible replacement movements or repair kits. It is essential to measure the original movement to ensure compatibility.
Another option is to consider clock movement inserts. If you are open to converting your clock to quartz, you could use a standard insert, but this is less ideal for collectors seeking authenticity. For example, Axminster Tools sells quality clock inserts, but these are typically quartz and may not match your mantel clock’s mechanical requirements.
Professional clock repairers often have access to a range of spare parts or may be able to repair original movements. Auction sites specializing in clocks, such as Bonhams, may occasionally offer vintage clock parts or entire clocks for parts. However, finding just the movement or specific components requires patience and frequent searching.
Online forums and groups, such as the National Association of Watch & Clock Collectors (NAWCC) or horological repair forums, can be excellent resources for advice, trading parts, or finding repairers who can source or repair your movement.
Generalist marketplaces like Etsy, eBay, etc., sometimes have vintage clock parts or movements, but you will need to verify compatibility and condition. Current results show custom-made clocks rather than replacement movements.
In summary, for an authentic restoration of a Fleet Time mantel clock with mechanical movement issues, contacting a specialist clock repairer or browsing dedicated clock parts suppliers is recommended. If a temporary solution or battery operation is acceptable, clock inserts from suppliers like Axminster can be considered. For repair of mainspring barrel or second wheel issues, sending your movement to a professional restorer may be necessary.
| Source | Type of Movement Available | Notes/Considerations | |-----------------------|---------------------------|----------------------------------------| | Specialist Suppliers | Mechanical/Quartz | Best for parts/movements, may require compatibility check | | Insert Suppliers | Quartz | Quick, but not authentic for antiques | | Clock Repairers | Mechanical/Repair | Can repair or source parts | | Auction/Dealers | Mechanical (vintage) | Rare parts, patience needed | | Online Forums | Varies | Community advice, part trading | | Marketplaces | Varies (mostly quartz) | Good for browsing, but limited for mechanical needs |
The owner might find a compatible mechanical replacement movement or repair kit from specialist clock parts suppliers such as Timesavers, Merritt’s, or Meadows & Passmore (UK). When considering clock movement inserts for a quick fix, stores like Axminster Tools offer quality quartz inserts, but they may not meet the clock's mechanical requirements for authenticity.
