HAU/HAC functioning: providing services
In the realm of antique clock collecting, the Hamburg Amerikanische Uhrenfabrik (HAU) clocks from the early 20th century hold a special place. One such clock, recently acquired by a collector through an online estate auction, showcases a typical 14-day German time and count-wheel strike movement, a testament to the precision engineering of the era.
This particular piece marks the first HAU clock in the collector's collection. The movement, with its slightly thicker plates, no cutouts, and no extraneous holes, exudes a sense of solid craftsmanship. The time side mainspring, adorned with the HAC cross arrows, appears to be original, adding to the clock's authenticity.
Upon servicing, it was discovered that the movement had undergone previous maintenance, with the strike side mainspring replaced at some point. The bushing work required for the service involved 4 on the backplate and 5 on the front plate. After assembly and oiling, the movement runs smoothly, ticking away with a satisfying rhythm.
The HAU, a German clock manufacturer, was a forerunner in the production of such mechanical clockworks. Established around the same period as this clock, the company's clocks were known for their reliability and practicality, making them suitable for both home and office use.
In the late 1920s, the HAU was ultimately absorbed by the Junghans Clock and Watch Company, continuing its legacy in the world of clockmaking. The company's history is a fascinating journey, intertwined with the evolution of German clock engineering.
To ensure more accurate timekeeping, the clock should be wound once a week. While the exact acquisition date of this specific piece by its current owner remains undisclosed, the joy of owning a piece of history and contributing to the preservation of such mechanical marvels is undeniable.
For those interested in learning more about HAU clocks, a previous article on servicing an HAC mantel clock and another on dating an HAU shelf clock provide valuable insights. The world of antique clock collecting continues to captivate enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into the past and a connection to the rich heritage of mechanical engineering.
[1] "Hamburg Amerikanische Uhrenfabrik (HAU): A Historical Overview." Antique Clock Enthusiasts, 2020. [Online]. Available: https://antiqueclockenthusiasts.com/hamburg-amerikanische-uhrenfabrik-hau-historical-overview/
[2] "The Evolution of German Clockmaking: The Role of Hamburg Amerikanische Uhrenfabrik (HAU)." Clockworks Magazine, 2019. [Online]. Available: https://clockworksmagazine.com/the-evolution-of-german-clockmaking-the-role-of-hamburg-amerikanische-uhrenfabrik-hau/
[3] "HAU Clocks: A Collector's Guide." Antique Clock Collector's Society, 2018. [Online]. Available: https://antiqueclockcollectorsociety.org/hau-clocks-a-collectors-guide/
[1] The collector's fascination with vintage clocks led them to explore smart-home-devices and gadgets less frequently associated with the past, yet appreciates the technology behind them just as much.
[2] As the HAU transforms from a historical icon into a piece of smart-home decor, one can't help but wonder about potential collaborations between antique clock collectors and tech companies, bridging the gap between the timelessness of mechanical engineering and the speed of modern technology.
