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Goldanker mantel clock
Goldanker mantel clock
Goldanker mantel clock
Goldanker mantel clock

Goldanker mantel clock
Goldanker mantel clock
Goldanker mantel clock

Goldanker Westminster Chime Mantel Clock, circa 1962

I acquired this Goldanker brand Westminster chime mantel clock from a local estate auction on June 16, 2008 but have been unable to find much specific information about this clock, or who was the actual maker of the movement which is stamped with the Gold Anker name and logo. I am told that according to Schmid's 'Lexikon der Deutschen Uhrenindustrie', Goldanker was the trademark used by the firm of Uhrenfabrik Suevia GmbH. This firm started around 1920 and sold its clocks direct via commercial travelers rather than through trade wholesalers. The company had offices in Sindelfingen and Berlin. The firm was still going strong in 1959 according to an advertisement of that time quoted by Schmid

This is a big clock – a little over 24 in. wide, and the round center body is about 8 in. in diameter. It’s marked “West Germany” so it has to be post WWII. The finish has considerable crazing from age and there is a number “62” stamped in the wood. I believe this indicates a manufacture date of 1962, which is consistent with the style and finish condition. The clock has a balance wheel controlled 8-day movement that plays Westminster chimes on 5 longish tone rods, and also strikes on the hour. An unusual (at least to me) design feature is that the main wheels are held on the spring barrels by a bayonet twist-lock latch and are easily removed to access the main springs. There is most of a label on the door which is in German and basically gives instructions for setting up and operating the clock, the serial number, etc.

As received, the clock had severe damage to the strike side main wheel, spring, winding arbor, and second arbor, and all of the oil had solidified from years of apparent neglect. The pivots and pivot holes have surprisingly little wear and none required bushing. I replaced a total of 5 teeth on the main wheel (see arrow in last picture where two were replaced - also note the bayonet lock in this picture), and repaired the other damaged parts and the clock is now in running order. The five long tone rods give it a really robust sounding chime. Any additional information would be greatly appreciated.

I mosty collect "older" American made clocks, so I'm not sure what the ultimate disposition of this clock will be. For now I'll just enjoy it and let it run for a few months and see how it behaves.



SOLD


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Unless otherwise credited, the pictures and information on this page are the property of Robert H Croswell & Greenfield Clock shop, 4180 Main Street, Trappe, MD 21673 and may not be sold or used for commercial purposes without permission. © 2016

email:  bobby@greenfieldclockshop.com