Seth Thomas Legacy IV

[Springerrr]

Dear Wise Ones,
I have just joined this forum to ask a question about a mantel clock, but a grandfather is entering my life some day, so I am sure I will be back.
Pictured is a Legacy IV, dated 1974. The clock is wound x 3, chimes when the hands are set to the quarter hour and on the hour, and the balance wheel moves freely. When the wheel is set in motion, the clock runs for about a minute (ticking, advancing the minute hand) until the balance wheels seems to "run out of steam". I have tried tilting the clock a bit on both sides to see if it might be out of balance, but the running (or lack thereof) does not change. I have repaired many smart phones, so am handy with delicate instruments, but never a clock, so I apologize for coming among you as such an amature.
Thank you for your valuable time!!
Seth

 

[lpbp]

Very simply your clock is quite old and needs service, disassembly cleaning probably bushings and oiling. Not a good movement to start with, they still make this movement, and it is improved quality, a simple in and out. Unless you want to tackle a hard one to work on, this is the way I would recommend.

 

[Willie X]

I would recommend replacement also, 350-060 me thinks. The wear is obvious in the photo and it has to be bad for that to happen, except in maybe an extreme close-up.
The layout of the chime hammers is somewhat different now, so replacement will probably require some modification/s of your chime block, or maybe just changing over some of the chime hammer parts. I do remember that it's more of a problem with the older and larger Hermle chime movements used in this same case during the 50s and 60s.
Now is the time to change over to the simpler pendulum model (351-060), if you are so inclined. All you will need is a 15cm pendulum. To go this route will cost you about an extra 20 bucks.
Good luck, Willie X

 

[Springerrr]

Thank you both for the time you took to answer!!

 

[shutterbug]

If you want to learn clock repair, get yourself a couple of easier two train movements to start with. Worn out pivot holes are repaired with bushings. Do some searching on this site, and you'll find lots of information on how to let down springs. disassemble, polish pivots, insert bushings, and other minor repairs. Practice those skills until you feel confident, and then tackle that three train chimer

 

[Springerrr]

If you want to learn clock repair, get yourself a couple of easier two train movements to start with. Worn out pivot holes are repaired with bushings. Do some searching on this site, and you'll find lots of information on how to let down springs. disassemble, polish pivots, insert bushings, and other minor repairs. Practice those skills until you feel confident, and then tackle that three train chimer

Ever since I read Catch 22, "tiny repair" has attracted me!