
The first photo
shows the crutchless design of escape pallets not used until the 1800's. This remained
popular on the continent, particularly in Germany until the end of the age of mechanical
tower clocks around 1950. Notice the fact that the escape wheel was either reused or a
mistake was made and the wheel rim had to be re-pinned.
The second photo shows the setting dial. Notice the similarity of the style of take off
pins in this and the fourth photo to that of another Wagner
clock. The same holds true for the retrofitted second wheel in the strike train shown
in photo five as well as the third wheel in the going train. Check the carefully engraved
time markings on the going train's original main wheel in photos three and four. These
would have been used to set the clock to time before the advent of the retrofit setting
dial and clutch in photo two. The original setup probably did not have a clutch, but used
a 'freewheel' system whereby the escape wheel could be disengaged from the pendulum
pallets and be allowed to run freely forward or manually pushed backward to the correct
time as read off the main wheel's number markings. This method obviously had it's
drawbacks! Examine the difference in the tooth profiles used in the old style wheels that
engaged lantern pinions compared to modern designs. The tall profile and round tops are
simply beautiful.
Notice the difference in the construction of the lantern pinions of the old vers.
retrofit in the last photo (particularly in the end caps).

