When I overhaul a clock I may modify it to work at low voltage. This way it can continue to provide many more years of service and any clock repairer should feel safe in handling it. I usually do this if I consider a clock to be not able to be made safe working at 240V

Every part of the clock to remain as it was made except for the winding coil (left) which is changed to work with a low voltage 9 volts AC/50Hz Power Supply Unit. (right)

 

 

 

 

 

This change leaves the clock looking completely original but of course working and safe.

For safety reasons the clock will be fitted with a low value fuse to protect against having the wrong voltage appliied.

This modification is far less damaging to the original than having a quartz movement fitted and will give many more years of service in it's nearly original form. It retains the history and spirit in which the Smith's company took the clock market by storm in the 1930's until the 60's and if looked after will last more than a lifetime.

A rewind with very fine wire gauge enamelled wire would put the clock back to 240v working if wished, although I'm not sure what the value of that would be.

 

Please see repairs for prices as it is dependant on the movement type, clock type and condition -

 

Where I do the full overhaul, I can offer a 1 year guarantee against failure due to incorrect workmanship. If I do repair and the clock is running at 240V it will have an earth and will be PAT tested.

Other important information: These clocks should only be run indoors and not in a bathroom or other high humidity area. Kitchen's may be okay if they have ample ventilation/extraction. Location of the clock will determine how long it will run before a service is due.

 

contact me for further information

These clocks have a very robust movement in them but they are mechanical and do require attention from time to time. A three yearly clean and oil would maintain it in tip-top condition. What tends to happen is that they will get harder to start as the oil dries out, until such time that they won't run at all. The self-starters just wont start at all. Unrepairable damage is more likely to occur to the earlier movements, so regular maintenance is the best way to preserve the clock.