Discussion on Tick Talk Tuesday, episode 28: Exploring the Purpose and Dual Nature of the Double-Ended Key
The Gilbert Clock Company, established in December of 1828, has a rich history in clock-making. One of their vintage models, the Gilbert 2038 Tambour clock, is a mantel clock adorned with a Normandy Chime. Recently, I found myself servicing the movement of a Gilbert 2038 Tambour clock, and here's what I discovered about its keyhole.
The keyhole, located under the number 12, is a common feature on mantel clocks with chimes. Although it might seem intuitive to use this keyhole for winding the clock, it actually serves a different purpose on the Gilbert 2038 Tambour clock.
This keyhole is typically used to engage a lever or adjust the chime sequence of the Normandy Chime. With this key, you can:
- Silence the chime during certain hours
- Change the chime between different sequences if the clock supports multiple chime options
- Adjust the chime timing or function
It's important to note that the keyhole is not for regulating the speed of the clock. To do that, you would require a separate key that fits into an arbor just below the "12".
If you don't have the original manual, gently inserting the key and turning it slightly while observing the clock’s behavior can often reveal its purpose. However, be cautious to avoid forcing it, as old clocks require careful handling.
As a word of advice, working on old clocks can be addictive, so be prepared for a fascinating journey into the past. If you're new to clock servicing, it's always a good idea to start with simpler models and gradually move on to more complex ones.
In my own collection, I have a similar Gilbert tambour clock with a Normandy Chime. I've worked on its movement before, and I can attest to the charm and intrigue these vintage clocks hold.
If you've recently acquired a Gilbert Clock model 2041 from an antique store in Wisconsin, as I did, you're in for a treat. The disassembly of the Gilbert 2038 movement requires the removal of some parts to separate the plates, but the satisfaction of restoring a piece of clock-making history is well worth the effort.
Happy clock servicing!
The Gilbert 2038 Tambour clock, a vintage model from The Gilbert Clock Company, is a testament to the rich history of home-and-garden lifestyle antiques. With its Normandy Chime, it adds a touch of vintage grandeur to any room, making it more than just a timepiece – it's a lifestyle statement.
