Tuning the gears

I noticed a small brass mechanical wind-up timer sitting quietly on the third shelf. It had stopped ticking completely. I sat down beside it, studied the smooth round dial, and gently turned the winding key on the back until it offered firm resistance. Inside, a tiny rhythm sparked to life with a steady clicking sound. I leaned close to listen as the metal hands inched forward, marking off ten deliberate minutes until the soft bell chimed.