Do-it-yourself anniversary clock repair involves cleaning and lubricating specific parts of the clock. So you need the following tools and materials: • soft cloths • clock lubricant • glass dome cleaner • screwdriver Make some preliminary inspection of the clock. Open the glass dome and inspect the overall mechanism of the clock carefully.
Full Answer
How to get your anniversary clock running again?
Four common reasons why a mechanical mantel clock stops:
- Has your clock been moved recently? (Note: not all mechanical mantel clocks have pendulums. ...
- Is the clock wound? Your clock might just need to be wound. ...
- Are the hands touching the glass? Check the minute hand to make sure that it’s not touching the front glass. ...
- Are the hands touching each other?
How to fix your own clock?
- Summer Homework
- University Assignment
- Assignment Writing
How do you set an anniversary clock?
Part 3 of 3: Re-synchronizing the Chimes to the Hour
- Open the hinged glass cover of the clock’s face to access the clock’s hands.
- Move the big hand clockwise to the 11 o’clock position and pause.
- Listen for a sound like a spring unwinding. ...
- Advance the big hand to the 12 o’clock position and stop.
- Count the number of strikes. ...
- Move the big hand back counterclockwise to the number 9 and pause. ...
How to put an anniversary clock in beat?
Setting the beat on a Kundo
- MurphyMan. Having oiled my Kundo, I am now trying to set the beat. ...
- Tinker Dwight. I'd consider rest. ...
- MurphyMan. I'll work on that one. ...
- MartinM. You can watch the minute hand advance on most clocks during the drop. ...
- Tinker Dwight. I don't listen for the sound. ...
- Tony10Clocks. ...
- MurphyMan. ...
- Tinker Dwight. ...
- MurphyMan. ...
- shimmystep. ...
Can an anniversary clock be repaired?
When it's time to repair a 400 day clock, two things usually need to be done. The suspension spring gets replaced and the movement gets cleaned. These two procedures will fix most Anniversary Clocks.
How do I get my anniversary clock running again?
6:0529:35How to get Your Anniversary Clock Running Again - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThing. So to show you this is a lock that holds a pendulum. And you have to lift it up inside thereMoreThing. So to show you this is a lock that holds a pendulum. And you have to lift it up inside there let me hold on to this. Click it back clear back out of the way. And you can drop the pendulum.
Do anniversary clocks need batteries?
Today battery operation has replaced physical winding, although the basic mechanical principles remain intact. "Anniversary clocks" still stands, because in most cases, the batteries need replacing about once a year. The original anniversary clocks are now mainly family heirlooms and the domain of collectors.
Why does a battery operated clock stop working?
When battery operated clocks stop working, it's usually caused by one or more of the batteries. Either a battery has lost its charge, or battery acid has leaked, causing corrosion. Often, the internal mechanisms, such as the cogs, springs and other movements of the clock, are not faulty and are unaffected.
Why won't my pendulum keep swinging?
Pendulums must swing freely. If a clock pendulum touches anything during a swing, it stops. Often, a pendulum strikes the case after a clock is moved to a new location. Case strike is frequently the problem with grandfather clocks.
How much does it cost to fix anniversary clock?
Different clocks and their repair costsTypePriceTime-only clock$180 to $300Clock with an hour strike$320 to $400Clock with an hour strike and tune$380 to $500Anniversary clock$145 to $2005 more rows
How many times do you wind an anniversary clock?
As the name implies, the anniversary clock must be wound (at least) once each year. Many of these clocks will actually make it a whole year, but it is not uncommon for them to only last 8 or 9 months. The clock will probably begin to run slower as the year drags on. I recommend winding twice a year.
Why is it called an anniversary clock?
The “anniversary clock” is called that because it'll run for about 400 days on one winding, so you can wind the thing on your wedding anniversary, perhaps making a celebration of the ritual.
How do you remove the pendulum from an anniversary clock?
Usually there is a thick, stubby, brass lever between the base of the movement and the top of the pendulum. Hold the pendulum and turn the lever until the pendulum is released. Some clocks have a lever in the front, under the base of the clock. Move the lever to one side to release the pendulum.
How do you fix a clock that doesn't work?
1:227:21Battery Operated Wall Clock Doesn't Work! Let's Fix It! - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd make sure that they're not broken or damaged. Then what I do is I gently wipe them off becauseMoreAnd make sure that they're not broken or damaged. Then what I do is I gently wipe them off because of their plastic gears. They will collect a lot of dust. And debris.
How do you fix a clock that keeps stopping?
5:247:41"My Clock Keeps Stopping"- How to set the beat. - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd just gently push and Bend very very very slightly and then release.MoreAnd just gently push and Bend very very very slightly and then release.
How do you fix a clock mechanism?
0:338:58Save Money Quartz Clock Mechanism Repair - Fixing Disney "Winnie The ...YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipWhat happens normally if you drop one of these is that the little plastic cogs inside this unit getMoreWhat happens normally if you drop one of these is that the little plastic cogs inside this unit get dislodged. Possible simple fix is to open the unit and realign the cogs.
How often do you wind an anniversary clock?
As the name implies, the anniversary clock must be wound (at least) once each year. Many of these clocks will actually make it a whole year, but it is not uncommon for them to only last 8 or 9 months. The clock will probably begin to run slower as the year drags on. I recommend winding twice a year.
How does a rotating pendulum clock work?
The torsion pendulum rotates about the vertical axis of the wire, twisting it, instead of swinging like an ordinary pendulum. The force of the twisting torsion spring reverses the direction of rotation, so the torsion pendulum oscillates slowly, clockwise and counterclockwise.
How do you set a Dome clock?
8:1611:02Setting up a 400 Day clock - Pocket Full of Time - (281) 755-4377YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipGo ahead and make a half turn all the way around. And then come back one quarter. And you're usingMoreGo ahead and make a half turn all the way around. And then come back one quarter. And you're using this mark. This felt-tip mark as your point of reference. Remember it was right here.
How to repair a broken anniversary clock?
How to repair an anniversary clock? There are two ways to repair your broken anniversary clock. The first one is to repair it by using the do-it-yourself method. The second one is to hire a professional. When it comes to when to resort to the first method or the other depends on the amount of damage and repairs that your broken anniversary clock ...
Why is my 400 day clock not working?
If the torsion pendulum is stuck, see what causes it. Sometimes, an accumulation of dust or a dead insect causes the clock to stop working. Clean some parts of the clock using the soft cloth and remove the dust or insects.
Can you repair a 400 day clock?
You can learn some easy steps on how to repair your 400 Day Clock that may save you from paying expensive fees. But first, it should be very clear that repairing anniversary clock ideally requires the services of a horologist. But it does not mean that you cannot learn and apply some basic knowledge on anniversary clock repair on your own.
Can you use lubricant on an anniversary clock?
Avoid using strong chemical-based lubricant on your clock as it can cause discoloration of the anniversary clock parts, resulting to form a dry film residue that can eventually cause more damage on the clock. When cleaning and lubricating are done, get another soft cloth to clean the anniversary clock glass dome.
Can you repair an anniversary clock yourself?
There are certain cases that your broken anniversary clock only needs a simple repair, cleaning, and readjustment. You can try below the basic do-it-yourself solution on your clock before calling for a professional assistance. Do-it-yourself anniversary clock repair involves cleaning and lubricating specific parts of the clock.
How many days does an anniversary clock last?
Anniversary clocks gained popularity as wedding gifts. They are unique in that they run 400 days a year and only need to be wound once a year, which couples tend to do on their anniversary as a celebratory tradition. At The Clock Doctor, we understand the sentimental value anniversary clocks hold.
Why do torsion clocks last so long?
Because of their low energy consumption, torsion clocks could often run for hundreds of days at a time without needing to be rewound. For versions which could last a year or just beyond it without being wound, the name ‘400 day’ or ‘anniversary’ clock seemed fitting.
Why is my 400 day clock losing time?
Due to this thing spring/wire element, the 400 day clock can have trouble keeping time when there are fluctuations in temperature; changes in temperature can alter the elasticity of the spring, causing the rate of the clock to change and lose time.
Who invented the torsion clock?
While Crane may be credited with the invention of the torsion clock, its driving mechanism (the torsion pendulum) was actually invented nearly 50 years earlier, in 1793, by Robert Leslie.
Can anniversary clocks be repaired?
If your anniversary clock needs to be repaired, serviced or to have parts replaced, contact us today so we can take care of that for you to have your anniversary clock up and running again quickly.
How to repair a 400 day clock?
How I Repair Your 400 Day Clock 1 I unwind the mainspring and take the movement apart. This includes taking the mainspring out of the barrel. 2 Clean the mainspring, ratchet, barrel, gears, plates and other parts and inspect them for damage. 3 Clean the pivot holes with an oiled smoothing broach. 4 Repaire or replace any damaged parts. 5 Polish any rough or pitted pivots. 6 Final clean the parts. 7 Clean the pivot holes with pegwood. 8 Assemble and lubricate movement. 9 Assemble a new suspension unit, if needed. 10 Test the movement with the mainspring wound two turns. 11 Initially regulate the rate with a stop watch. 12 Set the fork height for correct escape arc and put the escapement in beat. 13 Let the clock run for a day to verify good pendulum motion. 14 Wind the mainspring fully and verify correct escapement action. 15 Test and regulate the clock for several days.
How does a 400 day clock work?
A Standard or full sized 400 day clock has a torsion pendulum which makes a rotation in 7.5 seconds, or 8 rotations each minute (four rotations in each direction). The clock makes one “tick” near the end of each rotation. Preceding each tick, a gear with pointed teeth called the escape wheel has been giving an impulse to the pallet assembly. During impulse, a vertical pin in the pallet assembly pushes a fork to the left or right. The fork applies this energy to the suspension spring (the thin wire holding the pendulum), and the suspension spring transfers some of this energy to the pendulum.
How to lock a Kundo clock?
If there is a locking device, lock the pendulum into the clock. For a Kundo clock (if it has a lock), raise the pendulum into the opening , then secure the locking arm with several paper clips through the hole to hold it firmly in the locked position, and tape it as well. For other clocks, tape the locking arm in the locked position (tape on the underside of the base to avoid damaging the finish). Put paper towel below and around the pendulum to help support it. If the pendulum does not lock, wrap it in bubble wrap and put it in the bottom of the box.
How to tell when a Schatz clock was made?
Many Schatz clocks from the 1950s, 1960s, and early 1970s have a date stamped on the back of the movement. There will be digits for the month and the year. For example, 12 57 means December 1957.
How to keep a pendulum from locking?
For other clocks, tape the locking arm in the locked position (tape on the underside of the base to avoid damaging the finish). Put paper towel below and around the pendulum to help support it. If the pendulum does not lock, wrap it in bubble wrap and put it in the bottom of the box.
How long does a 400 day clock run?
Typical clocks run either one day or eight days on one winding. To make 400 day clocks run longer, a torsion pendulum is used. A torsion pendulum hangs from a thin flat wire and rotates in one direction and then the other, instead of swinging back and forth as a standard pendulum does.
How many rotations per minute on a 400 day clock?
The most popular models, those by Schatz and Kundo, have pendulums making 10 rotations per minute.
What is anniversary clock repair kit?
This Anniversary clock repair kit has the basic items to clean a 400 day movement without disassembly. This kit is for the person who would like to do a simple clock cleaning with out having to learn an intense amount of clock repair information or Horology.
What is the purpose of cleaning a clock movement?
The goal to cleaning a clock movement is to remove old oil that has become a solid and to put new oil in its place. Solid clock oil creates wear to the movements outer plates and eventually causes too much friction for the clock to run. With a good cleaning of the anniversary 400 day clock with this 400 Day Repair Kit and a new suspension spring, ...
How to set a clock in beat?
You need the level to be sure the clock stays in beat from one place to another. Learn to set the clock in beat by the directions in the E-book, making sure the clock is level when it is being done. Then keep a level with the clock and wherever the clock goes, as long as it's level, it will be in beat. By being in beat, it means to have an even tick-tock-tick-tock rather than ticktock---ticktock---ticktock. Often many repairs ONLY need to be set in beat to work - however a cleaning is usually optimal. The oiler is full of oil and is the size of a fat pen. Apply a small amount of oil to anything that has friction after the old oil has been taken off. This is enough clock oil to do many clock movements. This kit contains one oiler and one level.
What is a pivot on a clock?
Pivots are the skinny ends of the arbors that the gears attach to. The pivots insert into the clock plates. When the old oil dries up, it turns to goo and has to come off. Suspension springs are the long, flat wires on the back of the clock, that let the balls rotate in the air.
Can a magnifier be worn over glasses?
Magnifier can be worn over glasses. This fits over the head and will be the most convenient magnification for inspecting important components of the clock movement and parts. This quality tool is made here in USA and is a must for this type of work. This flips up over the head when there is an interruption in your work and has 2 1/2 magnification.
Can a 400 day clock be broken by one wind?
This spring is very long in a 400 day clock, and that is why the clock runs for so long with only one wind. Therefore it can destroy the rest of the clock and possibly harm the repairer unless you use this tool. Use the let down tool to let the mainspring unwind in a slow manner that you control.
Why does the clock have to come apart?
The clock has to come apart because you need to get the long thin suspension wire out to change it. Its the central component in the whole regulating system so you have to take everything off to change it. Here’s a picture with all the bits you need to strip of the movement.
How does a clock work?
The clock works by hanging a weight on a flat thin wire that runs up the back of the clock (usually through a sleeve which is annoying) and attaches vie a lynch pin to a spigot that is there purely there as a hanger. You will see that on this wire there is a fork which forms its own bracket to hold itself in place.
How does an anniversary clock work?
Anniversary clocks have a pendulum that rotates back and forth. Hang the pendulum (it may have four balls, a disk, or figurines) on the bottom block of the suspension wire. The pendulums on some anniversary clocks cannot be removed easily. These clocks usually have some kind of lock that keeps the pendulum in place during transport.
Why won't my clock keep time?
If the spring thickness is wrong, or the length is wrong, or the fork is put on in the wrong place , the clock either won't run or won't keep time. A new spring can also affect the "beat" of the clock.
How to level a clock?
Level the clock by rotating the leveling feet (you will see three knurled disks at the base of the clock) until the pendulum is centered, or by putting shims under the clock if it doesn’t have leveling feet. Once the clock is level, rotate the pendulum (1/2 circle) and release.
How to release a pendulum?
Usually there is a thick, stubby, brass lever between the base of the movement and the top of the pendulum. Hold the pendulum and turn the lever until the pend ulum is released. Some clocks have a lever in the front, under the base of the clock. Move the lever to one side to release the pendulum.
Can an anniversary clock keep time?
Now even if the spring is perfect and the clock is in beat, if the clock has not been cleaned in a number of years, it may not keep time. Anniversary clocks run an entire year on one winding, so there is very little power that pushes the pendulum back and forth.
