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Not much of interest on eBay lately. So it was pleasant to have something really interesting to share: A motor driven Gillett & Johnston striking unit.Seller's eBay text:
"Gillett & Johnston electric striking unit with solenoid activated mercury tube switching. 1926 can be seen on the motor plate however I’m not sure if this is a date or not. If it is, then it’s very early however, I think it could be later than this.I have connected the motor. Which runs but smokes badly. This could be from long term storage, deteriorating wiring or just old age. For clarity it being sold as not working. Please assume the motor will need repairing or replacing. The gearbox casing is completely non-ferrous – I assume gun metal so could polish up well.
It’s heavy – just over 40 kg so collection only unless you want to arrange a pallet. Overall measurements are 700 x 250 x 350 high.Could be an interesting project for someone. Cash on collection please- not accepting PayPal for this."
As can be seen and according to the seller's description some work will be involved in its restoration. Some considerable knowledge of electrical work will obviously be required for safety if it is intended to get it going again. Rather than as a static display.Motor rewinds are possible if the original motor casing is to be used. One hopes it can still meet modern levels of safety and reliability. It would be a shame to lose originality by fitting a modern motor. Old motors have their own unique style and personality.
These units were probably never intended to be seen by the general public. Though that did not stop these world famous, bell and clock manufacturers from producing a most attractive unit. One presumes that the drum-like casing, on top, houses a large, worm gear, speed reduction gearbox. Designed to turn the striking components at an acceptable striking speed with enough torque to lift a heavy bell hammer.
The spaced pins on the large, ratchet wheel ensure the correct number of blows are struck on each hour in turn. Far more useful and interesting, than a single strike on the hour. IMO. An advance lever is operated by a round cam on the outer end of the wormwheel shaft.
The mercury switch, to start the motor run, will be triggered by a master clock and its associated "bell ringer" unit. The latter were often to be found in schools to ring electric bells for timing classes. These "bell ringers" can still be found quite regularly on eBay and make most attractive, collector's items in a master clock system or collection.
I have resized the original auction images for the blog format. Left Click for enlargements.
Copied and shared for educational purposes. To extend the life of the seller's excellent images [and relevant information] beyond the close of the eBay auction. Good luck with your bidding!
This item sold for £146.67 GBP after 16 bids.
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