Restoring the mechanism of the Gilbert 2038 Tambour Clock, featuring Normandy Chime - working on the clock's internal movement
A Gilbert Model 2038 8-day mantel clock, adorned with a distinctive Normandy Chime, has been brought to life after a thorough servicing process. This antique timepiece, reminiscent of old bells from Normandy, France, was purchased through an estate auction and is now ready to grace a new home.
The clock, made by the Gilbert Clock Company, was established in December 1828, and the model number and "Normandy Chime" are stamped on the bottom of the case. The model features a tambour style design, and the clock's mainsprings are in good shape, providing ample motive power to maintain an 8-day cycle.
The servicing process for this unique clock involves careful disassembly, cleaning, and reassembly, with a special focus on the removal of key parts and the use of an ultrasonic cleaner to clean the movement. While detailed step-by-step service instructions for this specific model are not readily available, a standard approach to similar antique mechanical clocks includes:
- Removing the Dial and Hands: Carefully remove the clock hands followed by the dial (face) to gain better access to the movement inside.
- Removing the Front and Back Plates: Remove screws or nuts to separate the front and rear plates, exposing the gears, escapement, and chime mechanism for inspection and cleaning.
- Removing the Pendulum and Weights (if applicable): Detach any pendulum or weights to avoid damage during cleaning.
- Disassembling the Movement: Depending on your expertise, partially or fully disassemble the gear train and chime components, taking care to handle the Normandy Chime mechanism's specific chime rods or hammers with care.
- Using an Ultrasonic Cleaner: Place metal parts (gears, plates, screws, springs) in an ultrasonic cleaner filled with a clock-cleaning solution designed for delicate metal parts. The ultrasonic cleaner uses high-frequency vibrations to remove old lubricant, dirt, and debris without damaging components.
- Drying and Lubrication: After cleaning, parts should be thoroughly dried and then lubricated with appropriate clock oil at pivot points and contact surfaces.
- Reassembly: Reassemble the movement carefully, ensuring all gears and components are correctly positioned.
- Testing and Adjustment: Wind the clock and test the timekeeping and chime. Adjust the pendulum length or escapement as necessary to regulate time.
Because particular designs can vary, consulting experienced horologists who specialise in Gilbert clocks is recommended for precise instructions. The Normandy Chime mechanism may have unique aspects requiring careful handling.
In this case, a smaller 3mm diameter bushing was used to address a worn pivot hole for the motion works gears, and five bushings were required to bring the clock to top running condition. The clock now runs smoothly, and its distinctive Normandy Chime continues to captivate listeners with its charming, melodic sound.
The winning bid for this Gilbert Model 2038 with a Normandy Chime was $25 plus tax and buyer's premium, making it an affordable addition to any collection. With careful servicing and maintenance, this antique clock will continue to keep time for generations to come.
The meticulously restored Gilbert Model 2038, equipped with the captivating Normandy Chime, will undoubtedly enrich its new owner's lifestyle, especially those with an appreciation for vintage clocks and home-and-garden antiques. With its unique sound captivating listeners, this astonishing piece of fashion-and-beauty history is not only a practical timepiece but also a treasure to be proudly displayed.
