Return springs
The efficient running of the striking train on French clocks is dependent on several small return springs which bear on the striking hammer and the different levers that are incorporated in the movement.
The tapered springs are very delicate and have a combined thread at one end in order to screw the springs into the plates. The picture to the right shows two springs in situ operating on the hammer arbor and locking lever of a countwheel movement.
These springs are easily broken or damaged and very difficult to repair. Up until now the only sources of supply have been damaged redundant movements which have been broken-up for spares.
The other picture shows three replacement springs now obtainable from Meadows & Passmore.
The springs are long enough for the largest movements and are easily shortened.
Threaded 1.6mm suitable taps are also obtainable from Meadows & Passmore, 1 Ellen Street, Potslade, Brighton BN41 1EU. Tel: 01273 421321. Website: www.m-p.co.uk
