Dismantling Forestville's Delft Clock: An Inside Look at Its Components
**A Rare Find: The 1954 German Delft-Style Clock Unearthed in Canada**
A unique piece of history has found its way to the forefront of horological enthusiasts in Canada, as a 1954 German Delft-style clock is put through its paces in a two-week test run. The clock, with the intricate design and composition reminiscent of Dutch earthenware, was imported from Germany and sold by the Forestville Clock Co. of Toronto, Canada.
**The Clock's Origins and Mechanics**
The timepiece features a small and simple movement with a hairspring balance, and any bushings that need to be installed for the clock would be very tiny. The back-plate of the clock is difficult to access, making maintenance a challenging task. Despite its lack of great timekeeping due to lack of cleaning, the movement of the clock has been put back together, with the wheels, pallets, and escape wheel installed.
**Cleaning and Testing**
After a thorough cleaning, the mainspring of the clock, powerful enough for its small size and designed to run for 8 days, is now ready for action. The clock's parts, including the mainspring, are cleaned, dried, inspected, and pivots polished to ensure they are in top condition. The adjustment screw on the bottom plate allows for the separate installation of the escape wheel, making the process a bit more manageable.
**The Significance of Delft-Style Clocks in Canada**
While specific information on Delft-style clocks in Canada during the 1950s and 1960s is not readily available, the cultural and historical connection to Holland through Delft pottery is well-established. The significance lies in the appreciation for Dutch craftsmanship and the broader cultural exchange between the Netherlands and Canada.
During this era, the clock was popular as a kitchen clock in Canada, and the designer may not have considered servicing the clock during its creation. However, a cleaning now will keep it running for several more years. Manipulating small clock parts can be frustrating, especially for those used to working on American clocks, but the reward of preserving a piece of history is well worth the effort.
**A Testament to the Past**
The 1954 German Delft-style clock serves as a testament to the rich cultural history between Canada and the Netherlands, and its survival for over half a century is a testament to its quality and craftsmanship. As it runs on its test stand for the next two weeks, horological enthusiasts and history buffs alike eagerly await the chance to see this piece of history in action.
[1] "Delftware" (2021). The Canadian Encyclopedia. Retrieved from
[3] "Delftware" (2021). Encyclopædia Britannica. Retrieved from
The 1954 German Delft-style clock, now under test run, can be a valuable addition to vintage clocks in one's home-and-garden, embodying an intriguing mix of fashion-and-beauty and lifestyle. Its intricate mechanics, with small clock movements and a hairspring balance, add an element of vintage charm to the world of clock movements.
