Identification of Kienzle table clock

[leopardus2]

Hello guys,

I have got myself this nice Kienzle table clock, date unknown. I like vintage design clocks but understand absolutely nothing about them, their mechanisms, etcetera.
I have some naive questions, hope you can help me answer them
While of course it would be nice to know the approx date of this clock, what is more important to me is what does "automatic" mean in a table clock? I used to have automatic wristwatches and I understand they would wind by arm movement, but this??
Also, it runs somewhat slow and would like to understand if there is a screw inside to compensate that, I remember old alarm clocks usually had them. I also have no idea how to open it or even how to wind it.... it has two knobs, the inner one moves the hands but the outer one only seems to unloose - I haven't unscrewed that yet since I wanted some advice.

It is currently running (guess the seller has wound it?) but it makes loud noises from time to time (every 2-3 mins or so, not at regular intervals). Not sure why.

Sorry for all the naive questions and hope you can help me shed some light...

Thanks in advance
Rick

 

[leopardus2]

OK I have been brave and unscrewed outer handle and I was able to get answers to most of the questions (see picture).
Any idea about the approximate date of production, or the why it makes this loud noise every approx 2 minutes 30 seconds?

Thanks again!
Rick

 

[leopardus2]

Just learnt that this is a mechanical movement with a solenoid that winds it up. and that's the noise I am hearing.
I also found out this is a 606 movement.

Last question left is, can someone date this clock

Thanks guys

 

[Joe Gargery]

I cannot help with the dating Rick, I'm sure others here can, but that is a great looking clock!
Joe

 

[roughbarked]

Yes. The clicking is the solenoid giving the movement a kick.
These movements date from the 1960's, as does the clock case design.
Take care that the corrosion is cleaned off the battery contacts.
Vinegar or a paste of water and bicarb soda will help remove it and neutralise it. Allowing you to put a good shine on the battery contacts.
It is also missing the hand set knob.

 

[leopardus2]

Thanks for the reply. The knob is there, it came off when I opened the movement case.
I must say, the solenoid click every 2'30'' is quite annoying... otherwise it ticks beautifully....

Thanks again!
Rick

 

[JTD]

I must say, the solenoid click every 2'30'' is quite annoying... otherwise it ticks beautifully

I am sorry the click disturbs you - I had a larger clock which made a similar noise and I grew to like it, I missed it when it was no longer there. But we are all different.

At least your clock has a very attractive appearance.

JTD

 

[roughbarked]

My son in law was so annoyed with the one I keep going here that I had to take the battery out to shut him up.
It is true that some people have trouble with new sounds in their environment more than others.
Was listening to a story where the interviewee said, "Yes it was terrible noise when I first came here but now it is like background music".

 

[roughbarked]

Found this nice loooking Kienzle clock on the net. Sold but it gives a good description. Design C20 - Item details.
Methods of reducing the noise may be employed. Such as sitting the clock on some insulating or sound absorbing material. Place it near drapes that help to deaden sound.