I have 6 years of experience in the world of clock repair. Most of my work consists of American Time and Strike movements, German mantle and wall movements, Howard Miller grandfather clocks along with any modern grandfather clocks, 1800’s American grandfather tall case clocks, French Comtoise clocks, Anniversary clocks, Cuckoo clocks from 1880’s onward, French mantle movements, Gustav Becker clocks, Quartz clocks, etc. For the most part, if it tells the time I can probably get it running and if not I would let you know right away. There are certainly some cases where either a clock is totally unfamiliar to me or it’s parts are simply too delicate and need a more experienced specialist (atmos clocks, electrical clocks with masters and slaves to be wired, etc. ) in such cases I will let you know that the clock in question is out of my depths and will refer you to someone who can assist further. More than likely these specialists are out of state and have long wait times. But it is better off with them as the last thing I want is to work on a clock that is beyond my years of experience and in doing so not respect the piece itself.
My background is a bachelors in mechanical engineering in 2018. I apprenticed with a clockmaker in El Paso for 2 years while in school and started my business shortly after graduation. A lot of practical experience has been gained through the years by working on customers clocks. I’ve noticed hundreds of subtle differences in movement designs even when it’s the same maker and as such have a wide range of experience. I also regularly attend classes offered by the American Watch and Clockmakers Institute located in Columbus, Ohio. Currently I apprentice under Certified Master Clockmaker Jerry Faier for a few weeks during the year. His shop is located in Phoenix AZ.
I also keep in regular contact with other clockmakers around the country to discuss clocks and diagnose issues as a group. It’s a small thing as far as education goes, but I find the occasional need to brainstorm with other working professionals helps to greatly add to my 6 years of experience and thereby offering you the customer a better service.
Pricing options tend to vary between whether or not you want the option that includes a warranty with your work. I am willing to accommodate and offer customers options involving repairs that don’t involve full scale rebuilding and cleaning of movements, but it is very much a “at your own risk” option. Sometimes a clock will run again with small adjustments. But very often if your clock has not been serviced in more than 5 years, you can expect it to run poorly.
As of 2023, wait times for full scale overhauls and Restorations are around a year. If your clock was made within the last 60 years, I would urge you to go with outright replacing your movement if it has never been serviced. This greatly reduces your wait time as all I have to do is order a new movement and can install it within a few hours. Thus saving time for you and me!