CLOCK 120: The American Style Time-and-Strike Movement

This course is aimed at analyzing the American style, time-and-strike movement, which are often the “bread-and-butter” of many shops.

This introductory course is to present the learner with the various aspects of clocks. There is much to know! What will be stressed in this 3-day hands-on educational program will be an examination of an American style time/strike movement. This movement is a most common example of clocks found in repair centers.

Day 1: After observing how the clock movement functions as a time/strike movement, the learner will start with examining the movement as a time only movement, the strike train will be removed. The educational program on day one will center upon starting with the power source (open main spring) and safety considerations. Study will then explore the motion works and related components to the dial hands. After this, there will be an examination of the escapement (recoil). Students will become proficient at disassembly and reassembly of this “time only” movement during Day 1. It is recommended that the learner complete at least five (5) disassembly/reassembly activities of the time only train side of the movement.

Day 2 experiences will center upon the strike train and its related components. As with the time only experience, there will be discussion of mainspring power safety and containment. There will be a discussion of “Lock”, “Warning”, “Run”, and back to “Lock” sequence. The necessary motion works components will be included to trip the strike train into operation. All necessary lever action will be considered and explained. Like the time train side of the movement, it is recommended that the learner complete at least five (5) disassembly/reassembly activities of the strike train side of the movement.

During day 3, the learner will “pull it all together”. Since the American style time/strike movement is often times the “bread and butter” of many clock repair centers, participants will be requested to disassemble and reassemble the movement at least five (5) times. This will surely uncover trials and pitfalls of this process. Upon completion of reassembly, each movement will be checked for proper operation, along with being in beat, proper synchronization of the strike train and related concerns. Many of these performances are required for successful completion of the Twenty First Century Clockmaker Standards & Practices. The ultimate goal of certification will be discussed.