Timepiece Mantel Clock: Mainspring Wear and Tear
In the small town of Deep River, Ontario, the Canadian Clock Museum houses a collection that includes clocks and watches imported by various companies. One such piece is a mantel clock from the Fleet Time Company of Montreal, a Canadian clock manufacturer that operated between 1936 and an unspecified year.
The company produced a variety of mantel clocks, some with two and three-train mechanisms, and these often featured German movements. The author of this article owns two Fleet clocks, one with an unknown German movement and another boasting a Westminster chime mantel clock with a German Gufa movement.
Despite the clock's historical significance, the article does not delve into its condition, sounds, or any unusual features. Instead, the focus is on the search for a donor movement for the clock. The author is seeking information to aid in this quest, as the original movement may need replacement.
The Fleet Time Company's history is marked by a short lifespan, likely due to the challenges posed by World War II. During this period, France was divided into zones controlled by different governments, and industrial production and export capabilities in France were severely affected. As a result, companies like Fleet Time Co. may have faced difficulties in sourcing movements from France.
In contrast, other companies, such as Forestville Clock Co., managed to continue sourcing French movements, possibly due to their ability to navigate or adapt to these challenges. However, specific details about Forestville Clock Co.'s sourcing are not provided.
The Fleet Time Co. clocks, like many old clocks, have tinted lacquer finishes that do not survive well over time. Some of these clocks, including the one discussed in the article, have wood cases made in Canada, while others have imported cabinets from Germany.
The case of the author's Fleet Time Company clock has been reconditioned, with the addition of a dial and bezel from an old Blackforest Clock Co. clock. The clock strikes on 3-rods, producing a distinctive bim-bam sound.
The article also mentions the Blackforest Clock Company, a Canadian clock company, but does not provide new information about this company. Similarly, the Blackforest Clock Company of Toronto, Ontario, is mentioned but remains undiscussed.
In conclusion, the Fleet Time Co.'s avoidance of French movements during the war and beyond was likely due to the significant wartime disruptions and political complexities surrounding France. This situation affected companies differently, depending on their circumstances and strategies. The search for a donor movement for the Fleet Time Company clock continues, offering a glimpse into the world of clock restoration and the challenges faced by these historical pieces.
- The author's vintage Fleet Time Company clock, with a Westminster chime and a German Gufa movement, is an example of the unique mantel clocks produced by this Canadian manufacturer.
- Despite the advancements in technology, the article highlights the importance of vintage clock movements, specifically the search for a donor movement for a mantel clock from the Fleet Time Company.
- The lifestyles of clock enthusiasts often include the restoration of historical pieces, such as the Fleet Time Company clock, to keep the memories of its past and the craftsmanship of clock movements alive.
