Malfunctioning of Ansonia Drop: Mainspring Rust Causing Failure
In a fascinating journey of clock restoration, an Ansonia Extra Drop wall clock, a time-only Rosewood veneered wall clock manufactured by the Ansonia Brass and Copper Company in the early 1880s, was brought back to life.
The clock, initially purchased in poor condition, was part of a barn find. Missing crucial components such as the brass dial bezel, verge, hands, pendulum bob, suspension spring/rod, and drop access door, it required a meticulous restoration process.
After initial servicing, the clock would only run if wound halfway, due to surface rust causing it to stop. The main challenge was to put the many pieces back together and give the movement a second chance.
Cleaning and treating rust on an old Ansonia Extra Drop mainspring requires careful handling to avoid damaging the delicate metal. Here is a step-by-step guide you can follow:
What you’ll need:
- Protective gloves
- Fine steel wool (#0000 grade) or very fine abrasive pad
- Rust remover (mild, like naval jelly or a rust remover suitable for fine metal parts)
- Soft cloths or microfiber cloths
- Mineral spirits or lighter fluid (for cleaning)
- Light oil or clock oil (for lubrication)
- Small container or tray
- Cotton swabs or small brushes
- Compressed air (optional)
Steps:
- Remove the mainspring carefully If it's still inside the barrel, make sure to carefully remove it from the clock mechanism, ideally using mainspring winder tools to avoid injury and damage.
- Initial cleaning Use a soft cloth dipped in mineral spirits or lighter fluid to remove surface dirt, old grease, or oil. Wipe gently and remove excess solvent with a clean cloth. Allow it to dry thoroughly.
- Assess the rust Determine the extent of rust. Surface rust can often be treated simply, while heavy corrosion might require more careful restoration.
- Apply rust remover Apply a mild rust remover sparingly with a small brush or cotton swab to the rusted areas. Follow product instructions carefully. Avoid soaking the entire spring since some rust removers can be harsh on spring temper.
- Gently remove rust Once the rust remover has had time to work, use very fine steel wool (#0000 grade) or a fine abrasive pad to gently rub away rust spots. Work lightly so you don’t scratch or weaken the spring.
- Clean off residues After rust removal, clean the mainspring again with mineral spirits or lighter fluid to remove any rust remover residue.
- Dry and dry again Make sure the mainspring is completely dry to prevent further rust. Use compressed air if available or wipe with dry cloths.
- Lubricate the mainspring Apply a thin film of light clock oil or mainspring lubricant specifically designed for clock springs. This helps prevent future rust and provides smooth operation.
- Reinstall carefully Reinsert the mainspring into the barrel and reassemble the clock carefully.
Additional tips:
- Avoid using harsh abrasives or aggressive rust removal techniques as they can damage the spring's temper and strength.
- If the mainspring is heavily rusted or pitted, consider consulting a professional clockmaker or spring specialist as it might require replacement.
- Always work in a well-ventilated area and wear protective gloves, especially when handling chemicals.
After several full 8-day cycles, the clock runs very well, but a replacement mainspring may be necessary in the future. This restoration project showcases the dedication and skill required to bring a vintage timepiece back to life.
The meticulous restoration process of the vintage clocks, such as the Ansonia Extra Drop, often involves home-and-garden projects like clock repair. With the right tools and careful handling, you can refurbish even the most damaged old clocks, giving them a new lease of life in your lifestyle. Modern gadgets and technology might be appealing, but restoring vintage clocks offers a unique connection to the past, showcasing the dedication and skill required to bring a timepiece back to its former glory.
