Cory Doctorow at 6:14 AM Sun 
Robotech sez, "You wouldn't expect gears and springs to constitute a literal safety hazard, but my antique clock repairman father pointed out this PDF file about an antique anniversary clock whose idiosyncratic construction means that its mainspring can potentially unwind catastrophically, destroying the clock and injuring bystanders. This destructive potential has earned it the nickname 'the German Time Bomb.' The article advises clockmakers wear heavy protective clothing if they should ever need to repair one." The Sigfried Haller 'Time Bomb' Anniversary Clock (PDF) (Thanks, Robotech!)If you are considering working on the movement, either to service or repair it, you need to be aware that this clock was not nicknamed 'The German Time Bomb' as a term of endearment but because it can and does cause injury without any warning, and it can do so at any time, ticking or not. If you are not an experienced clock repairer, do not attempt to work on it. Put it in a strong carton, cover it with an old towel, seal the box and mark the box appropriately. Store it away from children.
Courtesy of Boing Boing
A clock - who's instructions for repair sound more like something the military advises their Ordinance Disposal Team to use. AND, only if you absolutely MUST work on it. Otherwise, it's to be entombed and forgotten for all time under a towel. Ah, ha, ha, ha, ha, ha! Because (eyes are watering now), hiding under a towel is forever! Ah, ha, ha, ha, ha. Remember when you would hide from monsters as a child? The towel over the head made you invisible - Ah, ha, ha, ha, ha, ha! It's too rich.
-Lord Malignance
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