Arcadian Clock Co. About Us
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Arcadian Clock Co. Restoration
Three train English longcase movement by East

Antique clock restoration, once the primary activity of the Arcadian Clock Co., is now a distinct sideline. But we do continue to restore movements that would benefit from our specific expertise in the field of high grade French and other European horology.

Tompion longcase movement

 
Choosing a Clockmaker
Anyone with a bucket of cleaning solution and a hammer can call themselves a clockmaker, whether or not they have ever actually made a clock. The fact is that in most places in the United States, no qualifications are required to be entrusted with the restoration of your clock. You must assess the qualifications of each self-proclaimed "clockmaker" on your own. Is the person qualified? Do they have experience? Is their shop fully equipped? Are they currently working on clocks like yours? These are questions that are best asked before, rather than after the fact. Unlike a bad haircut that will grow out in a month, a bad clock repair can render permanent damage to your valuable clock.
Thuret

Hands made by David Munro on a Thuret clock

 

Years of Experience

As professionals, with decades of experience in the restoration of high-grade timepieces, we have the practical understanding of what each restoration job requires. If you have a quality clock, particularly one of European origin, we have most likely worked on that type of movement. From unusual striking and chiming configurations, to calendars simple and complex, to repetition trains of every sort, it is rare to find a complication that we have not worked on, and in many cases reconstructed from holes in the plates. We have practical experience with escapements from the early verge to the most complex constant force designs. We have been entrusted with the restoration of works by the greatest makers in the history of horology.

French skeleton clock

French repetition

 

English bracket clock verge escapement

  

Computer Design

In our workshop, we have been using the latest CAD applications for many years. There is a good chance that the part your clock needs has drawings on file that can be adapted to your job. Since all parts we make are done from numeric measurements, there is a bonus of accuracy that is just not available to the workman using traditional hand methods of fabrication.

Continuing Studies
We have an extensive library of horological works, as well as of movement photographs, a few of which you can see on this page. This continuing study of the theory and aesthetics of horology gives us an advantage in knowing the specific needs of your clock.

 

A Network of Suppliers

We work with a wide variety of outside suppliers in both our clock making and restoring work. Besides traditional horological suppliers, we work with:
----suppliers of precision components to industry
----woodworkers and finishers
----glass cutters
----marble workers
----foundries
----polishers and heat treaters
----dial makers and restorers

Thank you
Taking the time to read this has given you a bit of understanding of the issues involved in selecting the clockmaker who is right for you and your clock. If we can be of any assistance to you, or if you have any questions, please feel free to call.

 

The Arcadian Clock Co.munro@arcadianclock.com

(908) 497-1900

 

©2003 The Arcadian Clock Co.