Servicing the mechanical innards of the Gilbert 2038 tambour clock, equipped with the Normandy Chime.
In the world of antique clocks, the Gilbert mantel clock with a Normandy Chime stands out for its unique charm and functionality. A recent restoration project involved bringing a model 2038 of this clock back to its former glory.
The heart of this clock lies in its striking mechanism, which comprises two small yet essential metal levers, or hammers, and a metal rod gong. These components work together to produce the distinctive Normandy Chime melody, marking the passage of time. The hammers, mechanically activated by the clock's movement mechanism, strike the rod gong, creating the chime sound.
During the service and restoration process, two specific parts—the disc for the bim-bam strike and the L bracket for the passing strike—were carefully removed to facilitate a thorough cleaning. Disassembling the clock and separating the plates was necessary to access these parts.
A critical part of the servicing process was cleaning the components in an ultrasonic cleaner. This step ensured that all the accumulated dirt and old oil buildup was removed, preventing potential failures caused by bushing wear. In this particular case, a smaller 3mm diameter bushing was used to address a worn pivot hole for the motion works gears.
The clock's mainsprings were in excellent condition, retaining plenty of motive power to maintain an 8-day cycle. This is a testament to the clock's well-maintained state before the service and the quality of the Gilbert Clock Company's craftsmanship.
The Gilbert Clock Company, established in December of 1828, is renowned for producing high-quality mantel clocks that reflect the period they were made and were common in North American homes. This particular model 2038 with a Normandy Chime is no exception, boasting a plain yet attractive design that deserves a few more years of life.
The vintage Gilbert tambour style clock was found through an online estate auction catalogue. The auction bid for the clock was $25 + tax and buyer's premium, and the winning bid was still under the maximum bid of $35. This affordable price made it an attractive find for collectors and enthusiasts seeking to add a piece of history to their collection.
The Normandy Chime, reminiscent of old bells from Normandy, France, adds a touch of European charm to this American-made clock. The inclusion of two hammers enables the clock to produce alternating tones or sequences of notes, creating the distinctive Normandy Chime melody. This design not only enhances the clock's functionality but also its aesthetic appeal.
In conclusion, the service and restoration of this Gilbert mantel clock with Normandy Chime not only brought it back to its former glory but also highlighted the importance of regular maintenance for antique clocks. By addressing the worn bushings and cleaning the accumulated dirt and old oil buildup, the clock was able to continue its service for many more years to come.
The vintage Gilbert tambour style clock, which boasts a unique Normandy Chime melody, was found to share its chronological vista with smart-home-devices and gadgets, as it was created by The Gilbert Clock Company, established in 1828. In a world where technology advances at an exponential rate, it's worth noting that this antique clock still thrives alongside the newest innovations, including vintage clocks and other mechanical gadgets.
As the restoration process unveiled, this Gilbert mantel clock, resembling a work of art with the inclusion of two hammers, stood not only as a testament to traditional artisanship but also as a testament to the enduring charm of smart-home-devices and technology, where mechanical leverage and melodic chimes strike the same balance between functionality and aesthetic appeal.
