Q: What is the Kieninger PS38 Clock Movement with Bim Bam Chime?
A: The Kieninger PS38 is a German-made, high-precision cable-driven 8-day clock movement designed for wall and floor clocks in the PS series. It features a Bim Bam chime system, which strikes a traditional two-tone “bim-bam” sound on a coiled gong at the half-hour and hour, offering a simple, classic alternative to melodic chimes.
Q: What type of mechanism is PS38?
A: It is a two-weight cable-driven movement, where one weight powers timekeeping and the other powers the striking system, ensuring stable and consistent operation.
Q: What does the Bim Bam chime do?
A: The Bim Bam system produces alternating “bim” and “bam” tones on a coiled gong, typically striking at the half hour and full hour, giving a clear and traditional German-style chime instead of a musical melody.
Q: Does it have night silence?
A: Yes. The PS38 includes automatic night shut-off (ANSO), which silences chimes and strike during preset nighttime hours, usually around 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
Q: What are its key specifications?
A: It is an 8-day movement with approximately 4260 beats per hour, designed for an 80 cm pendulum and a 32 mm hand shaft, and it is built in Germany for long-term durability and precision.
Q: Why is PS38 popular?
A: It is valued for its simple but iconic Bim Bam sound, strong German engineering, and reliability, making it a common choice for traditional clock restorations and replacements where a non-musical chime is preferred.