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Old 8th Jun 2018, 10:14 pm   #1
Phil G4SPZ
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Default Smith 'Prestwick' synchronous electric clock/time switch

I have recently acquired this clock. It works, but appears to be missing the manual starter knob. It doesn't start automatically and I have tried pulling and releasing the hand setting knob, without success.

The internal wiring looks original and is in 'modern' brown/blue/green & yellow colours, and it has an IEC socket on the output lead, so I think the clock is relatively recent despite its dated appearance.

Can anyone advise, please?

Phil
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Old 9th Jun 2018, 7:26 am   #2
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Default Re: Smith 'Prestwick' synchronous electric clock/time switch

Update: further research reveals that this clock dates from 1950, which means that the mains wiring must have been replaced at some point, although the work has been done very neatly.

The other interesting point is that these clocks sometimes appear branded "EKCO" on the dial. The time switch contacts are rated at 300W. By all accounts, it was intended to switch an Ekco radio set on and off once a day. I'm guessing that this could have been aimed at factories, schools etc rather than the domestic user, but does anyone know more?
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Old 9th Jun 2018, 9:41 am   #3
mark_in_manc
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Default Re: Smith 'Prestwick' synchronous electric clock/time switch

Perhaps there was a market for a gizmo to turn the radio on and give the impression of 'folks being in', when away on holiday? I'd be a bit reluctant from a fire point of view!
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Old 9th Jun 2018, 9:57 am   #4
Phil G4SPZ
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Default Re: Smith 'Prestwick' synchronous electric clock/time switch

Me too! Although I do have several modern time switches controlling various lights around the house for the very purpose you mention.

I now think that this clock's synchronous motor should be self-starting. I'll need to dismantle it and have a look.
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Last edited by Phil G4SPZ; 9th Jun 2018 at 9:58 am. Reason: Clarity
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Old 9th Jun 2018, 2:45 pm   #5
broadgage
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Default Re: Smith 'Prestwick' synchronous electric clock/time switch

It might also have been to switch on a lamp, not so much for security, but as a silent alarm clock.
Or of course a radio, again as an alarm clock rather than a security feature.


I used to use a modern plug in time switch and a lamp for this purpose.
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Old 9th Jun 2018, 3:57 pm   #6
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Default Re: Smith 'Prestwick' synchronous electric clock/time switch

Quote:
Originally Posted by Phil G4SPZ View Post
I now think that this clock's synchronous motor should be self-starting.
That's right. Your third picture shows a hole in the back, through which can be seen a tiny glimpse of the motor. I recognise this as being the self-starting type.
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