A ha'porth of tar

I could equally say don't spoil an expensive clock by using a few cheap materials.  I removed this fairly modern mechanism from a superb longcase clock, walnut veneered with parquetry and marquetry and various inlays.  It plays four tunes and has a night silence mechanism.  It cost several thousand pounds when new.  The mechanism is solid but there are a few components that are made of brittle plastic and a few springs made of the flimsiest of steel.  This clock could have had real longevity but for these shortcuts.  It is a shame and the reason why buying older mechanical clocks is usually better than buying new ones.