Family Clock Controversy Escalates: Public Opposition Surges in 31st Edition of Tick Talk Tuesday
In the latest episode of Tick-Talk Tuesday, the focus was on the proper transportation of antique clocks, with a special emphasis on the Jauch clock, a mechanical wonder that continues to work perfectly after 100 years.
The series, which discusses various aspects of clocks, antique clocks, and American clocks, addressed the concerns of reader MM, who owned a Jauch clock that worked and chimed beautifully. MM, initially intending to sell the clock, decided to keep it and asked for precautions before moving it.
Here are the recommended steps to safely transport an antique Jauch clock:
- Stop the Clock and Remove Moving Parts: Remove the pendulum and any weights to prevent movement within the clock mechanism during transport. This simple step avoids potential internal damage caused by parts swinging or shifting.
- Secure the Clock Hands: Carefully remove or secure the clock hands to prevent bending or breaking while moving.
- Keep the Clock Upright: Transport the clock in an upright position to maintain the integrity of the movement and avoid damage to internal components.
- Use Padding and Secure Packaging: Wrap the clock in soft cloth or padded materials to prevent scratches, impacts, or vibration damage. Double boxing (placing the clock in a padded smaller box inside a larger cushioned box) provides extra protection.
- Consider Professional Help: For valuable antiques like a Jauch clock, professional movers experienced with delicate timepieces or special clock transport services may be advisable. Custom crates or climate-controlled transport can further protect the clock against temperature and humidity fluctuations.
- Avoid Extreme Temperature and Humidity: Keep the clock away from direct sunlight, extreme heat, humidity, or cold during transport as these conditions can warp wood, damage finishes, and affect the mechanical movement.
- Insurance and Appraisal: Obtain a professional appraisal and consider additional insurance coverage to protect against loss or damage during transportation.
By carefully disassembling sensitive parts (like the pendulum and weights), securely packaging the clock, ensuring upright positioning, and protecting from environmental extremes, you can significantly reduce the risk of damage during transit. The advised precaution is to unhook the pendulum, wrap it in paper or tissue, and place it back in the case unhooked for transport.
It's unfortunate that many fine clocks, including antiques like the Jauch, are discarded or thrown away due to a lack of interest in them. However, with proper care and knowledge, these mechanical wonders can continue to chime and keep time for generations to come.
For those interested in selling their Westminster chime clocks, they can be easily sold online, especially on Facebook Marketplace, with an estimated value of around $125. Tick-Talk Tuesday also provides responses to reader questions about their clocks and consults with clock circles for answers to complex questions.
Stay tuned for the next episode of Tick-Talk Tuesday, where we delve deeper into the fascinating world of clocks and the questions and comments they inspire from our readers.
In the realm of vintage accessories, the transport of an antique Jauch clock is as crucial as preserving a prized piece of fashion-and-beauty or home-and-garden antique. By following the recommended steps to safely transport an antique Jauch clock, owners are fostering a lifestyle that values heritage and craftsmanship, ensuring their mechanical wonder continues to work perfectly after 100 years.
