Servis Washing Machine model Caress 1000 'A'.

This machine has a electromechanical type timer control which has ceased to
advance the wash cycle.

The machine is still usable -after a fashion- by manually advancing the
control knob after each stage of the wash. All aspects of the wash cycle
appear to function normally, but as may be imagined, having to continually
return to the machine to advance the timer is extremely frustrating.

Nothing has been attempted yet but removing the timer and applying oil to
the timer motor bearings- if accessible- has been suggested, but is this
likely to provide a solution as the timer does not advance at all -not just
stiff or slow.

Is there a solution other than buying a new timer control?
Would that be throwing good money after bad?

P.S I'm posting for a friend at another location so won't be able to carry
out any immediate checks.

Roger R