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The Hermle 340-020 clock movement represents German horological craftsmanship adapted for the demands of modern mantel and bracket clock applications. Manufactured by Franz Hermle & Sohn in Germany's Black Forest region, this spring-driven Westminster chiming mechanism has powered countless American-made clocks from major manufacturers including Howard Miller, Ridgeway, Sligh, and Hamilton since the 1970s. Its distinctive balance wheel escapement—eliminating the need for a traditional pendulum—made it ideal for smaller clock cases where space constraints or portability considerations precluded swinging pendulum designs.
Understanding the 340-020's characteristics, proper identification methods, regulation techniques, and replacement procedures enables clock owners to maintain these reliable mechanisms or make informed decisions about service versus replacement. While German-made Hermle movements earned reputations for longevity often exceeding three decades, all mechanical systems eventually require attention. Whether you're troubleshooting a sluggish chime, addressing timekeeping issues, or considering movement replacement, comprehensive knowledge of this ubiquitous mechanism proves invaluable.
The 340-020 belongs to Hermle's extensive 340/341 series—a family of movements sharing similar dimensions and features but differentiated by escapement type. The 340 designation specifically indicates balance wheel regulation, while the 341 series employs traditional pendulum escapements for applications requiring visible pendulum motion or where case design accommodates suspension systems. This distinction is critical when sourcing replacement movements, as mixing these types creates installation and operational problems.
Historical Context: Post-War German Clock Manufacturing
The Hermle Company Legacy
Franz Hermle established his clock company in Gosheim, Germany in 1922 as Germany recovered from World War I devastation. From its inception, the company emphasized precision engineering and quality materials, rapidly establishing itself among Europe's premier movement manufacturers. By the 1930s, Hermle had achieved international recognition for incorporating modern manufacturing techniques while competitors continued relying on nineteenth-century methods. This technological advantage resulted in superior precision, consistency, and production efficiency.
Following World War II disruption, Hermle resumed civilian production and began the export expansion that would make the company's products ubiquitous in American clock manufacturing. American manufacturers including Seth Thomas, which had produced its own movements for over a century, transitioned to German suppliers during the post-war period. Hermle's combination of quality, reliability, and competitive pricing made their movements attractive alternatives to costly domestic production requiring significant capital investment.
Throughout the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s, Hermle movements became standard equipment in American-made clocks from virtually every major manufacturer. The company's numbering system—three or four digits, a hyphen, then three more digits (e.g., 340-020)—became familiar to clockmakers and collectors. This standardization meant movements could be identified, serviced, and replaced based solely on backplate markings, regardless of the clock case manufacturer or retailer name appearing on dial faces.
Balance Wheel Innovation
The balance wheel escapement represents one of horology's most significant innovations for portable and compact timepieces. Unlike pendulum escapements requiring stable, level mounting and adequate clearance for pendulum swing, balance wheel systems regulate timekeeping through a weighted wheel oscillating on a hairspring—similar to mechanical wristwatch movements. This compact, position-independent regulation system enabled clock designs impossible with traditional pendulum mechanisms.
Hermle's implementation of balance wheel technology in mantel clock movements like the 340-020 brought wristwatch-style regulation to shelf and bracket clocks. The result was mechanisms operating reliably regardless of slight variations in case leveling, enabling placement flexibility impossible with pendulum designs. This practical advantage, combined with reduced case depth requirements eliminating pendulum clearance needs, made balance wheel movements preferred choices for modern furniture-style mantel clocks.
Technical Specifications and Identification
Movement Dimensions and Configuration
The 340-020 features brass plates measuring 100mm x 100mm (approximately 4 inches square), providing substantial size supporting robust gear trains while remaining compact enough for moderately sized mantel clock cases. The handshaft—the arbor extending through the dial carrying hour and minute hands—measures approximately 32-33.2mm in length from the front plate to the hand nut threading. This specification is critical when fitting movements to existing dials and cases, as insufficient handshaft length prevents proper hand mounting.
The movement employs a spring-driven configuration with three mainspring barrels powering separate trains: timekeeping, quarter-hour chiming, and hourly striking. This three-barrel arrangement enables the sophisticated Westminster chime progression that sounds partial melodies at 15, 30, and 45 minutes, followed by the complete Westminster melody and hour count on the hour. The separation of chime and strike functions allows independent operation if one train develops problems.
Five hammers mounted at the movement's bottom strike chime rods or gongs, producing the characteristic Westminster melody. This bottom-hammer configuration is universal across all 340 and 341 series movements, distinguishing them from some competitor designs employing side or top-mounted hammers. The consistent hammer placement simplifies case design, as manufacturers knew precise gong positioning requirements regardless of specific 340/341 variant.
Identifying Movement Markings
Positive identification begins with examining stampings on the brass backplate. The movement number "340-020" appears prominently, typically accompanied by the Hermle name or "FHS" (Franz Hermle & Sohn) marking. Some movements bear retailer markings instead of or in addition to Hermle identification—names like Urgos, Howard Miller, or Seth Thomas appear on movements manufactured by Hermle for those companies. The actual movement number, not the retailer name, determines replacement compatibility.
Date codes provide manufacturing year information. Pre-1987 movements display two-digit year codes (e.g., "81" indicates 1981), while post-1987 production switched to letter codes starting with "A" for 1988, progressing alphabetically through subsequent years. This dating system helps assess movement age when considering repair versus replacement—movements exceeding 20-30 years of service typically warrant replacement rather than expensive overhaul.
Suffix letters occasionally appear after the base model number (e.g., 340-020A). These suffixes generally indicate minor variations in finish, hardware, or manufacturing batch but don't affect functional compatibility. When matching replacement movements, the base number (340-020) is essential, while suffix letters can typically be ignored without causing fitment or operational problems.
Distinguishing Balance Wheel from Pendulum Versions
The critical distinction between the 340 series (balance wheel) and 341 series (pendulum) requires verification before ordering replacement movements. The 340-020 employs balance wheel regulation visible as a weighted wheel with hairspring mounted prominently on the back plate. No pendulum rod, suspension spring, or leader components exist on balance wheel versions. In contrast, 341 series movements include suspension post, leader wire, and pendulum rod with adjustable bob.
If your clock has been operating without a pendulum and shows the balance wheel assembly, it's definitely a 340 series movement. Attempting to install a 341 (pendulum) movement in a case designed for balance wheel operation creates problems, as the case likely lacks proper pendulum clearance, suspension mounting provisions, or access for pendulum hanging. Conversely, installing a 340 balance wheel movement in a case designed for visible pendulum operation eliminates the pendulum aesthetic element.
Understanding Balance Wheel Regulation
Old Style Vertical Spiral Configuration
Hermle produced two distinct balance wheel regulation systems throughout 340-020 production history. The earlier "old style" utilized through the 1970s, 1980s, and into the 1990s features a vertical spiral spring encircling the balance wheel's center arbor. This spring's cylindrical configuration creates a compact regulation system, with the balance wheel oscillating as the spring winds and unwinds around the central post.
A sliding arm with a small weight attaches to the balance wheel itself, with plus (+) and minus (−) markings indicating adjustment direction. Moving the weight toward the plus sign increases balance wheel effective weight, slowing oscillation rate and therefore clock speed. Conversely, moving toward the minus sign reduces effective weight, speeding operation. This adjustment method, while functional, proved challenging for users to regulate precisely without specialized equipment available to factory technicians.
The old style system's primary limitation involves difficulty achieving perfect regulation. Small adjustments create disproportionate rate changes, while the weight's friction against the balance wheel sometimes shifts position during operation, causing gradual rate drift. Professional clockmakers with proper timing equipment can achieve acceptable regulation, but amateur adjustments often result in frustrating trial-and-error processes.
New Style Flat Hairspring Design
The transition to "new style" balance wheel regulation occurred gradually as Hermle refined their designs. This improved system employs a flat spiral hairspring—similar to wristwatch movements—extending horizontally from the balance wheel arbor. The hairspring's consistent geometry and improved mounting method provide more stable, predictable regulation compared to the old vertical spring design.
Regulation of new style balance wheels typically involves adjusting screws or levers affecting hairspring effective length, similar to wristwatch regulation methods. These adjustments produce more proportional rate changes, making precise regulation achievable without specialized equipment. The improved system also shows better long-term stability, with less tendency toward spontaneous rate drift requiring frequent readjustment.
When servicing or replacing 340-020 movements, understanding which balance style your movement employs helps set realistic expectations for regulation ease and precision. Old style movements, while functional and reliable for timekeeping within reasonable accuracy ranges, may never achieve the precise regulation possible with newer designs. This is generally acceptable for decorative mantel clocks where minute-perfect accuracy is less critical than reliable operation and pleasant chiming.
Common Applications and Clock Manufacturers
American Clock Industry Integration
The 340-020 appeared in mantel and bracket clocks from virtually every major American manufacturer during its production era. Howard Miller, one of America's largest clock producers, utilized Hermle movements extensively across their mantel clock lines. Ridgeway Clocks, known for premium quality cases and finishes, paired beautiful woodwork with reliable Hermle mechanisms including the 340-020. Sligh Furniture Company's clock division incorporated these movements in their traditionally styled mantel pieces.
Hamilton Clock Company transitioned from American-made movements to German imports including Hermle's 340 series for their mantel clock production. Emperor Clock Company, which later became affiliated with Hermle's American distribution, used these movements throughout their product lines. Even Seth Thomas, bearer of one of American horology's most respected names, eventually incorporated Hermle movements in their later production after ceasing domestic movement manufacturing.
This widespread adoption meant the 340-020 became one of the most commonly encountered movements in American homes. Millions of these mechanisms were installed in clocks sold through furniture stores, jewelry shops, and department stores from the 1970s through the 1990s. Today, they remain ubiquitous in the used clock market, estate sales, and family heirlooms passed down through generations.
Replacement Movement Compatibility
The 340-020's standardized dimensions and mounting provisions created remarkable interchangeability across different case manufacturers. A movement extracted from a Howard Miller clock physically fits a Ridgeway case, and vice versa, provided both were designed for the same movement model. This standardization resulted from American manufacturers designing cases around proven movement specifications rather than commissioning custom mechanisms.
However, certain case-specific details require attention during replacement. Mounting feet positioning on the movement base varies slightly between different clock models. These feet require bending to match hole positions in the specific case seat board. Hand shaft length must accommodate dial thickness and bezel depth, with some applications requiring slight modifications. Gong or chime rod positioning must align with hammer positions, though this is typically addressed during original case design.
The movement's interchangeability with certain Seth Thomas movements adds another dimension to replacement options. The 340-020 replaces Seth Thomas models A401-003, A401-004, A401-005, A450-009, and A497-212. This cross-compatibility resulted from Seth Thomas specifications when transitioning to imported German movements, deliberately matching dimensions and features to existing case tooling and inventory.
Clock Repair and Maintenance Procedures
Routine Service Requirements
Hermle movements typically operate reliably for 25-30 years with proper periodic maintenance. The recommended service interval is every three years for oil service, involving cleaning dried lubricant from pivot points and applying fresh clock oil. This relatively simple procedure, costing significantly less than complete overhaul, dramatically extends movement life by preventing pivot wear that ultimately necessitates expensive bushing replacement or movement replacement.
Neglected movements show accelerated wear as dried lubricants become abrasive, grinding away brass bearing surfaces. The result manifests as increased friction, erratic timekeeping, sluggish striking and chiming, or complete stoppage as accumulated wear exceeds the mainspring's ability to overcome resistance. Once wear reaches this stage, proper repair requires complete disassembly, cleaning, and bushing replacement—work often exceeding the cost of movement replacement.
Visual inspection during routine service identifies developing problems before they cause failure. Check for signs including discolored brass indicating overheating from excessive friction, visible pivot wear creating excessive play, mainsprings showing rust or crystallization, broken or damaged gear teeth, and worn chime or strike mechanisms producing irregular sounds. Addressing these issues promptly prevents cascading failures where one worn component causes accelerated wear throughout the movement.
Balance Wheel Regulation Techniques
Regulating a 340-020 for accurate timekeeping requires patience and systematic approach regardless of balance style. Begin by allowing the newly cleaned and oiled movement to run for several days, permitting lubricants to distribute and components to settle into stable operating conditions. Making adjustments immediately after service often proves futile as the movement's rate changes during break-in.
For old style vertical spring balance wheels, identify current rate by comparing clock time against a known accurate reference over 24 hours. If the clock runs fast, move the sliding weight slightly toward the plus (+) mark, increasing effective balance wheel mass and slowing oscillation. If running slow, move toward minus (−). Make small adjustments—one or two millimeters—and observe results over another 24-hour period before additional corrections.
New style flat hairspring regulation follows similar methodology but typically involves turning small screws or moving lever arms affecting hairspring effective length. Consult movement-specific documentation for exact adjustment procedures, as mechanisms vary between production periods. The principle remains consistent: lengthening effective hairspring slows the rate, while shortening speeds operation. Small adjustments and patient observation produce best results.
Environmental factors affect timekeeping accuracy regardless of careful regulation. Temperature variations change hairspring characteristics, while humidity influences internal friction. Position the clock away from heat sources, drafts, and direct sunlight for most stable operation. Accept that mechanical clocks rarely achieve quartz accuracy—gaining or losing a few minutes weekly is normal and acceptable performance for properly regulated balance wheel movements.
Chime and Strike Adjustment
Westminster chime mechanisms in the 340-020 employ complex cam systems coordinating five hammers to produce proper melody sequences. Chime timing problems typically indicate worn cams, hammer adjustment needs, or lubrication deficiencies rather than fundamental mechanical failure. Before assuming major problems, verify the chime selector lever is properly positioned in the chime position rather than silent or strike-only settings.
Weak or missing chime notes often result from hammer adjustment problems. Each hammer should lift approximately 1/4 inch before releasing to strike its corresponding chime rod. Insufficient lift produces weak sounds, while excessive lift wastes power and may cause hammers to bounce, creating double strikes. Bend hammer springs carefully to adjust lift distance, making small changes and testing results after each adjustment.
Strike count errors where the clock strikes wrong hours indicate problems in the count mechanism rather than the chime system. The strike train uses a different cam configuration determining hourly strike counts. If strike counts are consistently wrong (e.g., always one strike short), the count mechanism likely requires adjustment during disassembly. However, intermittent strike errors often indicate weak mainspring power insufficient to complete strike sequences reliably.
Replacement Versus Repair Decision Making
Cost Considerations
Modern Hermle movement manufacturing economics create situations where replacement costs less than professional repair. A complete 340-020 movement typically retails for $300-400, whereas professional overhaul involving complete disassembly, ultrasonic cleaning, bushing replacement, and reassembly easily exceeds $400-500 when skilled labor rates and parts costs are factored. This economic reality fundamentally changed the clock repair industry's approach to German post-war movements.
The cost disparity results from several factors. Hermle's large-scale manufacturing achieves economies of scale impossible for individual clock repairers. New movements include updated components, fresh lubrication, and manufacturer warranties typically spanning three years. In contrast, overhauled movements reuse aged components, may develop additional problems shortly after service, and carry limited warranties reflecting uncertainties inherent in reusing decades-old parts.
However, certain situations favor repair over replacement. If the existing movement is relatively young (under 15 years), shows minimal wear, and requires only routine cleaning and lubrication, professional service proves cost-effective. Similarly, if the clock case has sentimental value but the movement itself is not particularly significant, investing in overhaul makes sense. Ultimately, decisions balance financial considerations against sentimental attachment and desired longevity.
Assessing Movement Condition
Determining whether a 340-020 warrants repair or replacement involves systematic condition assessment. Age provides the first consideration—movements exceeding 25-30 years have likely reached the end of their economical service life. Date codes on the backplate reveal manufacturing year, enabling quick age determination. Movements showing letter codes beyond "M" or "N" (representing mid-1990s production) are prime replacement candidates.
Operational symptoms indicate internal condition. Movements requiring winding more frequently than seven days suggest worn mainsprings losing power. Chimes or strikes that sound strong immediately after winding but weaken after several days similarly indicate spring deterioration. Erratic timekeeping despite regulation attempts points to pivot wear creating variable friction. These symptoms suggest comprehensive problems warranting replacement over repair.
Physical inspection reveals additional clues. Examine pivot ends visible at plate surfaces for obvious wear creating flat spots or grooves. Check for rust or corrosion on steel components including pivot tips, indicating moisture exposure. Look for amateur repair attempts such as excessive oil drips, bent components, or missing parts. Evidence of previous improper service suggests hidden problems making successful repair unlikely.
Movement Replacement Procedures
Removal and Documentation
Before removing the old 340-020 movement, thoroughly document its configuration within the case. Photograph all angles showing movement mounting, gong or chime rod positions relative to hammers, hand positions, and any special mounting hardware. Note which mainspring arbors correspond to time, chime, and strike functions—critical information for properly winding the replacement movement. Measure handshaft length from front plate to hand nut, verifying adequate length for the specific dial and bezel configuration.
Remove hands carefully to avoid damage. Minute hands typically friction-fit onto the handshaft, pulling straight off with gentle force. Hour hands friction-fit onto the hour pipe surrounding the handshaft, requiring careful removal without damaging delicate brass. Some hands secure with tiny set screws requiring loosening before removal. Store hands safely during movement replacement, protecting delicate finishes from scratches.
Disconnect gongs or chime rods from case mounting, noting their positions for reassembly. Remove mounting hardware securing the movement to the case seat board—typically screws through mounting feet or clips engaging slots in the seat board. Lift the movement free, supporting it carefully to avoid bending mounting feet or damaging protruding components. Place the old movement aside for reference during new movement installation.
Fitting and Adjustment
New 340-020 movements arrive pre-oiled and ready for installation, though mounting feet require adjustment matching the specific case's seat board hole pattern. Compare mounting foot positions on the old and new movements, bending new movement feet as necessary to align with existing mounting holes. Use proper technique bending feet at their base rather than mid-span, preventing metal fatigue and potential breakage.
Position the new movement on the seat board, verifying handshaft centers properly in the dial aperture before securing mounting hardware. Improper centering creates eccentric hand motion, preventing hands from pointing accurately to hour markers. Once centered, install mounting screws or clips, securing the movement firmly without excessive force that might distort brass plates or mounting feet.
Position gongs or chime rods so hammers strike centrally on their targets, producing clear tones without excessive force. Gong mounting affects resonance and tone quality—experiment with positioning if initial results seem unsatisfactory. Most installations provide slotted mounting holes permitting adjustment. Once proper positions are found, secure gongs firmly to prevent rattling during operation.
Setup and Initial Operation
Wind all three mainsprings approximately five full turns—sufficient for testing without risking overwinding new springs. Never wind movements to their absolute maximum tension during initial setup. Start the movement by gently rotating the minute hand forward through several chime cycles, observing proper chime progression and strike sequences. The Westminster melody should progress through quarter, half, three-quarter, and full sequences at appropriate times.
Check chime/silent lever function if one exists in your case, verifying it properly enables or disables chiming without affecting timekeeping. Some cases include separate strike and chime controls, requiring testing of each function independently. Verify hour strike counts match dial positions—if discrepancies exist, hand positioning rather than movement problems typically causes the issue.
Allow the newly installed movement to run for several hours before setting final time and making regulation adjustments. This break-in period permits lubricants to distribute, components to seat properly, and any minor settling to occur. After confirming reliable operation through multiple chime and strike cycles, proceed with final time setting and regulation as needed for accurate timekeeping.
Preventive Maintenance and Longevity
Proper Winding Techniques
Correct winding procedures significantly affect movement longevity and reliable operation. Wind all three mainspring arbors fully once weekly, rotating winding keys until natural resistance indicates the spring has reached stop works engagement. Never force winding beyond this point—stop works exist specifically to prevent mainspring overwinding damage. Most 340-020 movements require approximately 10-15 turns per arbor to achieve full wind, though exact numbers vary.
Wind springs with smooth, even motion rather than quick jerks that stress gear teeth and pivot bearings. If winding becomes increasingly difficult midway through the process, this is normal as mainspring tension increases. However, sudden dramatic resistance increases suggest problems requiring investigation rather than forcing. Establish consistent winding schedules—same day and approximate time each week—maintaining stable power reserves and preventing accidental overwinding attempts on already-wound movements.
Environmental Considerations
Position clocks containing 340-020 movements away from environmental extremes affecting mechanical operation. Avoid direct sunlight causing case warping and temperature cycling that affects hairspring characteristics. Keep clocks away from heating vents producing temperature fluctuations and air currents that accelerate lubricant drying. Maintain moderate humidity—excessive dampness promotes corrosion, while extreme dryness may affect wooden case dimensions and movement lubrication.
Protect movements from dust accumulation by ensuring case doors and access panels close properly, maintaining reasonable seals against airborne contamination. While movements aren't hermetically sealed, reducing dust ingress extends service intervals and reduces wear from abrasive particles mixing with lubricants. Periodically inspect case interiors for dust buildup, cleaning with gentle air blowing or soft brushes when accumulation becomes visible.
Sourcing Replacement Movements and Components
New Movement Availability
The 340-020 remains in production, ensuring availability of factory-fresh replacement movements. Current production benefits from decades of manufacturing refinement, incorporating updated materials and improved balance wheel systems compared to 1970s or 1980s examples. Authorized Hermle dealers and specialty clock suppliers maintain stock, typically shipping within days of order placement.
When ordering replacement movements, verify the exact model number matches your application. The 340-020 designation is specific and should not be confused with similar models like 340-020NB (non-bushed variant), 341-020 (pendulum version), or other 340-series variations. Provide dealers with backplate photos if any uncertainty exists—visual confirmation prevents costly ordering errors and return shipping expenses.
New movements include manufacturer warranties typically spanning three years, covering defects in materials and workmanship. This warranty coverage provides peace of mind impossible with repaired movements where warranties are limited and uncertain. Factor warranty value into replacement versus repair decisions, particularly for clocks intended for daily use rather than occasional display.
Individual Component Replacement
While complete movement replacement represents the most common and cost-effective solution for aged 340-020 mechanisms, individual component replacement remains viable for newer movements experiencing specific problems. Mainsprings, the most commonly worn components, are available individually for movements where pivot wear and other problems are minimal. Replacing tired springs restores full eight-day operation without the expense of complete movement replacement.
Balance wheel assemblies including hairsprings occasionally require replacement following damage or improper adjustment attempts. These delicate components demand careful handling and proper installation techniques exceeding typical amateur capabilities. Professional installation ensures proper balance wheel positioning, hairspring attachment, and subsequent regulation—work requiring specialized knowledge and tools.
Hammers, chime cam assemblies, and strike mechanisms also are available individually, though sourcing specific components often proves challenging compared to obtaining complete movements. The economic reality of modern movement pricing means component-level repair makes sense only for very recent movements where the bulk of the mechanism remains in excellent condition despite a single failed component.
The 340-020 in Historical Context
Impact on American Clock Manufacturing
The widespread adoption of Hermle movements including the 340-020 fundamentally changed American clock manufacturing during the post-war period. Companies that had manufactured their own movements for a century or more—Seth Thomas being the most prominent example—ceased domestic movement production, transitioning entirely to imported German mechanisms. This shift reflected economic realities where specialized European manufacturers achieved quality and pricing impossible for American producers to match.
The transition enabled American companies to focus on case design, woodworking, finishing, and marketing—areas where domestic labor and materials costs remained competitive. Premium American hardwoods, skilled cabinet making, and distinctive styling became the differentiating factors between brands, while reliable German mechanisms provided the functional hearts. This division of labor created the modern American clock industry's structure persisting through the late twentieth century.
Collector Perspective and Future Availability
Clocks containing 340-020 movements occupy an interesting position in collector markets. As post-war production pieces rather than antiques, they lack the premium valuations commanded by pre-war American-made examples. However, quality cases with beautiful woodwork, attractive dial designs, and pleasant chimes retain moderate collectible interest. The ready availability of replacement movements means functional examples can be maintained indefinitely, supporting continued appreciation and use.
As Hermle continues production, the 340-020 and its successors will remain available for decades, ensuring these clocks can be kept operational. This availability contrasts sharply with antique movements where parts scarcity and specialized repair knowledge create significant restoration challenges. Owners of quality cases containing 340-020 movements can confidently invest in their timepieces, knowing mechanical longevity is assured through movement replacement options.
Expert Hermle 340-020 Support and Authentic Components
At VintageClockParts.com, we bring over 20 years of specialized experience to clock repair and restoration, including comprehensive expertise with German post-war movements like the Hermle 340-020. We understand the unique characteristics of balance wheel regulation, the challenges of maintaining 30-year-old mechanisms, and the practical considerations facing clock owners deciding between repair and replacement.
Our inventory includes critical components and complete replacement movements for successful 340-020 service and restoration projects. We maintain stock of factory-fresh Hermle 340-020 replacement movements with current production improvements, authentic Hermle mainsprings matched to 340-series specifications when individual spring replacement is viable, balance wheel components including hairsprings for movements requiring regulation system repair, chime and strike components including hammers and cam assemblies for specific mechanical issues, and mounting hardware, hand nuts, and installation accessories for proper movement fitting.
Beyond physical components, we provide the technical knowledge essential for successful movement service and replacement. Our detailed resources cover accurate 340-020 identification and date code interpretation, balance wheel regulation techniques for both old and new style systems, proper removal and installation procedures specific to various case manufacturers, troubleshooting guides for common chime and strike problems, and decision frameworks for repair versus replacement based on movement age and condition. We've assisted countless clock owners navigate the complexities of German movement service and replacement.
We recognize that each situation presents unique considerations balancing cost, sentimental value, and intended use. Whether you're maintaining a cherished family heirloom, restoring an estate sale find, or servicing a favorite mantel clock, we're committed to providing authentic components, accurate technical guidance, and personalized support that enables successful outcomes. Our goal extends beyond selling parts—we're dedicated to helping keep quality timepieces operational for continued enjoyment.
The Hermle name represents over a century of German precision and quality manufacturing. The 340-020 movement, produced for decades and installed in millions of American clocks, embodies reliable engineering adapted for modern applications. Maintaining these movements with proper service or appropriate replacement honors that legacy while ensuring continued beautiful chimes and accurate timekeeping.
Visit VintageClockParts.com to explore our comprehensive catalog of Hermle components and replacement movements, access our technical resource library, and connect with our experienced team. We're here to support your 340-020 service or replacement project with the right parts, the right knowledge, and the right commitment to keeping fine timepieces operational for generations to come.
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