Rebuilding the Gilbert 2038 Tambour Clock's mechanism featuring the Normandy Chime
In a recent letter to our team, a reader shared their cherished Gilbert Model 2038 8-day mantel clock with Normandy Chime. This vintage clock, common in North American homes, is a testament to the era it was made and remains an attractive piece despite its plain design.
Regular maintenance is crucial for the smooth operation and preservation of the chime quality of this mechanical clock. Although specific instructions for the Model 2038 are scarce, general tips for similar 8-day mantel clocks with chimes can be applied.
To keep the clock ticking, it's essential to wind the clock once every eight days, ideally on the same day each week. Avoid over-winding to prevent damage to the mainspring. Regular cleaning with a soft, dry cloth is also necessary to keep the clock case and glass clean.
Every 2-3 years, the clock’s movement should be lightly oiled by a professional clockmaker to lubricate gears and reduce wear. Over-oiling or using improper oils can cause damage. The Normandy Chime's hammers and rods should be checked to ensure they strike correctly without binding, and any misalignment or dirt can affect tone quality.
It's also important to keep the clock away from direct sunlight, high humidity, or rapid temperature changes to prevent warping or corrosion. Every 5-10 years, the clock mechanism should be fully serviced (disassembled, cleaned, repaired) by a clock repair expert familiar with antique or mechanical chiming clocks.
Since the Gilbert 2038 is a specific vintage model with a rich chime mechanism, professional maintenance is recommended to preserve both the timekeeping and tonal qualities. If the clock is running inaccurately or the chime sounds irregular, a clockmaker’s evaluation is advisable.
The Gilbert Model 2038, also known as the Normandy Chime, was purchased through an online estate auction. Clocks like the one being serviced often fail due to bushing wear and old oil buildup. In this particular case, five bushings were needed to bring the clock to top running condition. Two specific parts, the disc for the bim-bam strike and the L bracket for the passing strike, must be removed for servicing. A smaller 3mm diameter bushing was used to address a worn pivot hole for the motion works gears.
The Normandy Chime is a bim-bam strike, reminiscent of the old bells of Normandy, France. The mainsprings were in good shape and have enough motive power to maintain an 8-day cycle. The Gilbert Clock Company, which established the company in December of 1828, has been crafting such timeless pieces for nearly two centuries.
This Gilbert Model 2038, while plain, is not unattractive and deserves a few more years of life. With proper care and maintenance, this clock will continue to chime its unique Normandy melody, reminding us of its rich history and the craftsmanship of a bygone era.
Vintage clocks like the Gilbert Model 2038, with their distinctive Normandy Chime, become integral components of one's home-and-garden and lifestyle, serving as beautiful testaments to the past. Proper maintenance, including regular cleaning, oiling, and professional servicing every few years, is crucial to preserve the clock's timekeeping and tonal qualities, ensuring that it continues to add charm to your home decor and a melodious piece of history to your life.
