Event Discussion: Tick Talk Tuesday #28 - Explanation of Purpose and Insights on The Two-Pronged Key
In an intriguing turn of events, a Gilbert Clock enthusiast named TD recently acquired a Gilbert Clock, model 2041, marked "Normandy Chime 2041", from an antique store in Wisconsin. This acquisition sparked a series of correspondence with another clock aficionado, Ron, who offered valuable insights on how to use the key that came with the clock to regulate the speed of the clock's chime mechanism.
The Gilbert Clock Company, established in December of 1828, has a rich history in clockmaking. TD's clock, a tambour style mantel clock, shares similarities with Ron's own Gilbert clock, including a rod gong with two striking hammers and the Normandy Chime feature.
The key that came with the clock is a doubled-ended one, and the small end of the key fits into an arbor just below the "12". The keyhole under number 12 on the clock is for regulating the speed of the clock, but the search results did not provide specific information about its purpose on a Gilbert Tambour style mantel clock model 2041 with a Normandy Chime.
Based on knowledge of traditional mantel clocks, the keyhole located under the 12 on such clocks typically serves as the winding arbor for one of the key-wound mechanisms. In chiming clocks like the Normandy Chime model, there are usually multiple keyholes: one for winding the timekeeping mechanism, one for winding the chime mechanism, and sometimes a third for winding the strike mechanism.
The keyhole under number 12 is most commonly used to wind the chime or strike spring, depending on the specific design, to power that function of the clock. It allows the user to insert a clock key to wind up the mainspring that drives the chimes or strikes at set intervals.
Ron, who owns a similar Gilbert tambour clock with Normandy Chime, advised TD on how to use the key. Turning the key clockwise speeds up the clock, and turning it counterclockwise slows it down. He also warned TD about the addictive nature of collecting old clocks, a sentiment that TD, who has a collection of old clocks and believes they are living things, seems to understand all too well.
This correspondence is part of the Tick Talk Tuesday series, which focuses on letters and comments about clocks and provides advice on specific clock concerns. The series, hosted by clock enthusiasts like Ron, serves as a valuable resource for clock collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Vintage clocks, such as the Gilbert Tambour style mantel clocks with Normandy Chime, are integral components of certain lifestyles, particularly those who appreciate home-and-garden decor with historical value. The key that came with the clock, a doubled-ended one, is instrumental in regulating the speed of the clock's chime mechanism, making it an essential tool for enthusiasts like TD and Ron.
