
Make sure the clock hands are not touching the glass. A clock minute hand that touches the glass will stop your clock. To repair, bend the minute hand towards the dial and away from the glass.
Full Answer
How to clean old clocks?
- Introduction
- Setting up the clock
- Changing Suspensions
- Putting it "In Beat"
- Cleaning the Movement
- Reassembling the works
How to fix old clocks?
Myths & Clocks
- You must not overwind the clock. Winding a clock spring all the way does not damage it! ...
- Mechanical clocks are very accurate. While most weight- and spring-driven mechanical clocks keep time within a minute or two a day, don’t expect split-second accuracy as you would get ...
- Buy only American. ...
- Just give it some WD-40. ...
How to unlock an antique?
Method 3: Using an Allen Wrench
- Insert the first Allen wrench at the top of the keyhole to push the lever If you need to open a deadbolt skeleton lock, you will need an ...
- Insert the second Allen wrench inside the keyhole. After you have positioned the first Allen wrench, insert the second one inside the keyhole of the lock. ...
- Turn the second Allen wrench clockwise.
How to repair dead wall clocks?
- Power Source
- Model Name/Number
- Usage/Application
- Service Provided
- Work Provided
- Usage/Application. Decorative designer wall clock. Remaining in tandem with the guidelines laid in the industry, we are engrossed in providing a wide range of Wall Clock.

Why do old clocks stop working?
Often a pendulum clock will stop when it has been moved, bumped or even a too aggressive push to restart a pendulum. It is not broken, only out of beat. This only takes a few minutes to readjust and all pendulum clock owners should learn how as this will happen eventually.
How do you fix an overwound antique clock?
Fixing An Overwound ClockClean The Clock. Sometimes cleaning your clock will get it working again. ... Lubricate The Mechanism. Like cars, all mechanical clocks need regular oiling. ... Replace The Springs. ... Find A Professional.
How do you restore an old clock?
1:585:53DIY Antique Clock Restoration - 1920s Ingraham Mantel Clock Case RepairYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBut you can also use an all or something similar i picked black lacquer spray paint for this as youMoreBut you can also use an all or something similar i picked black lacquer spray paint for this as you can see on this part i would spray it later let it dry sand it smooth. And then spray it again.
How much does it cost to restore an old clock?
Different clocks and their repair costsTypePriceClock with an hour strike$320 to $400Clock with an hour strike and tune$380 to $500Anniversary clock$145 to $200Cuckoo clock$150 to $4005 more rows
Can clocks be repaired?
Keep in mind that while some repairs can be repaired easily, sometimes it is best to let an expert repair your clock to help avoid additional damage. First, make sure your clock is wound up. I have been on numerous service calls where the clock only needed winding up.
Is it worth repairing a clock?
It depends on why you want your clock fixed. Antique clocks often have sentimental value attached, and if the cost of the repair is worth being able to hear your Great Aunt's mantel clock ticking once again, then, of course, it is worth fixing (even if a replacement would be cheaper).
How do you tell if a clock is overwound?
Identifying an overwound clock If your clock does not have a weight inside it, you will likely find that the pendulum is warped and bent, possibly out of shape or worn.
What causes a pendulum to slow down and stop swinging?
When the swing is raised and released, it will move freely back and forth due to the force of gravity on it. The swing continues moving back and forth without any extra outside help until friction (between the air and the swing and between the chains and the attachment points) slows it down and eventually stops it.
What kind of oil do you use on a clock?
Synthetic clock oil is not cheap because it is specifically formulated for the metals used in clocks. Brass and steel are used in clocks because when properly lubricated with the right oil it forms a perfect bearing. Brass is a soft metal which is why you won't find it in car engines.
How do you service a clock?
2:0025:02How to fix an antique mantel clock. Service & lubricating an overwound ...YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe pendulum shouldn't really be on there if you transport a clock always take the pendulum off itMoreThe pendulum shouldn't really be on there if you transport a clock always take the pendulum off it just saves any damage happening it can damage this suspension spring.
What keeps the pendulum swinging in a clock?
What is a pendulum? A pendulum is a rod hanging vertically from its top end (or a weight called a bob hanging from a string) that swings from side to side due to the force of gravity.
How much does it cost to get a clock cleaned?
The cost of servicing a grandfather clock can vary between $100 and $2,500, depending on what services are necessary. Normal servicing is not too costly while repairing and replacing parts can quickly add up. Major factors that impact the cost include: The type of clock and internal mechanisms.
How often should a clock be cleaned?
Wall & Mantel clocks should be cleaned & oiled every 3-5 Years. Floor clocks should be cleaned & oiled every 3-5 Years. Again, the conditions & environment the clock is subject to may vary, but on the average, these maintenance practices should keep your clock running for years to come.
Is it worth restoring a grandfather clock?
Aside from stylish appearance, antique grandfather clocks are worth fixing simply because they can run for a very long time. They do not rely on batteries or electrical power, which can subsequently save a lot of money.
What is a clock repair person called?
A clockmaker is an artisan who makes and/or repairs clocks. Since almost all clocks are now factory-made, most modern clockmakers only repair clocks. Modern clockmakers may be employed by jewellers, antique shops, and places devoted strictly to repairing clocks and watches.
How do you clean a clock without taking it apart?
2:1326:32How to Clean a Grandfather Clock part 2b of 4 - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd this one you can really jet. Really jet to cleaner down in and around those pivot points thatMoreAnd this one you can really jet. Really jet to cleaner down in and around those pivot points that way you know if you can do all that in a solution you don't have to then disassemble.
How do you release an overwound clock spring?
2:595:01005 Clock Mainspring - How to let down the power... Safely! - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipPlace the mainspring let down tool onto the square of the barrel Arbor. This is a good opportunityMorePlace the mainspring let down tool onto the square of the barrel Arbor. This is a good opportunity to see how strong the spring is. So give the clock a little bit of a wind.
How do you fix the hands on a clock?
0:492:30Clock Repair: The Hour Hand is Loose - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipJust slide your thumb nails underneath. The rim of the of the minute hand and push that our handMoreJust slide your thumb nails underneath. The rim of the of the minute hand and push that our hand down until you feel it get snug.
How do you wind a clock without a key?
If your clock has functional hanging weights and a pendulum, you won't need a key for winding your clock. Instead, you'll need to raise the weights using the special crank that comes with the clock. While you're cranking the weights up to wind the clock, take care not to lift the weights by hand while doing so.
How do you clean and oil a wind up clock?
9:5811:29How to Clean & Oil your Clocks: Part One of Two DIY Clock Oiling.YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSide. There's no way to take it off see. So you just have to go ahead. And. And take it out theMoreSide. There's no way to take it off see. So you just have to go ahead. And. And take it out the front and then you can clean and oil the front in the back side of this.
How do you release an overwound grandfather clock?
A clock can be overwound, resulting in the weights being stuck in the highest position. When this happens, gently move the minute hand past the quarter hour and listen for the chime. This should release the weight.
Can you fix an overwound watch?
2:307:55HOW TO RELEASE A LOADED MAINSPRING INSIDE ... - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThere are two ways to rewind the mainspring the first method which is quite dangerous butMoreThere are two ways to rewind the mainspring the first method which is quite dangerous but recommended if you are learning to become a watchmaker.
What is overwound clock?
When the condition of a clock is described as "overwound," there is always another underlying cause for why the clock will not run. The clock ends up fully wound because winding is the first thing we try when a clock has stopped. It is difficult to determine the cause without inspecting the movement.
How do you wind an old mantel clock?
The most effective way to wind your clock would be to open the front door, insert the crank, hold the clock steady with your left hand, and turn the crank with your right hand. After winding the clock, set the correct time by moving the minute hand either clockwise or counterclockwise.
How to make a clock show the correct time?
How can I make it show the correct time? If your clock has a "silent lever", activate it and then move the minute hand clockwise until the clock reads the correct time. If you do not have a "silent lever", move the hands clockwise, pausing every chime or strike cycle, until the correct time is reached.
How to stop a clock from swinging?
Look at the hour and minute hands closely. If they are touching the "time train" may be jammed which prevents the pendulum from swinging.
What does it mean when a clock is in beat?
A clock is "in beat" when the tick and the tock are evenly spaced. A clock that is "in beat" sounds like tick...tock ...tick...tock. A clock that is "out of beat" sounds like tick..tock.................tick..tock. When you hear an even, balanced beat, secure the clock to your wall with a bracket, or shim your clock feet.
Why does my clock stop swinging?
Have you recently moved your clock? The reason a clock pendulum often stops swinging, after being moved, is because the clock case now leans at a slightly different angle then it did at its former location. Don't worry about making your clock absolutely level with the floor and don't use a level. Simply start your pendulum swinging, then listen carefully to the tick-tock sound. Move the case slightly left or right until the tick-tock sound seems more balanced. A clock is "in beat" when the tick and the tock are evenly spaced.
How to wind a clock?
For a tutorial explaining see how to wind your clock. Make sure the clock hands are not touching the glass. A clock minute hand that touches the glass will stop your clock. To repair, bend the minute hand towards the dial and away from the glass. Advance the clock twelve hours to make sure the minute hand does not catch on the hour hand.
How to determine the correct number of days from the last new moon?
Applying a small amount of pressure to the moon dial, move it clockwise to indicate a new moon. Now move the dial clockwise one clock per day for the correct number of elapsed days from the new moon to today.
How to make a clock sound balanced?
Don't worry about making your clock absolutely level with the floor and don't use a level. Simply start your pendulum swinging, then listen carefully to the tick-tock sound. Move the case slightly left or right until the tick-tock sound seems more balanced.
The most common problem its solution
As previously mentioned, clocks can easily be repaired by yourself. This article specifically focuses on the topic of antique clock repair, they can be useful for other kinds of clocks as well.
Correcting Antique British dial clocks
A vintage British dial clock is distinguished by the fact that it has a spring drive. It is a clock with a single dial gear and a single winding point. Therefore, to get the watch running again, you must use a key with the number 11 or a crank with the number 10. Place the key in the rewind point and twist it sixteen turns clockwise.
Repair Antique floor clock
An antique floor clock has two rewind points and two loads that hold the time and operate the arrows on the clock face. To start it put the same key first in one and then in the second winding point and twist it about thirteen times.
Fixing the Modern Floor Clock
A modern floor clock is a modern clock that can be wound in two ways. These clocks usually have three different kinds of gears, and each has a different weight.
Expert Antique Clock Repair, Restoration & Refurbishing
In addition to specializing in antique clock repair, our master clockmakers can restore antique Chelsea clocks – and many other fine brands – to their original appearance. Antique clock restoration services include careful refinishing of aged clock cases, dials and hands.
Some of the many fine pieces our master clockmakers have restored
Request a free estimate, with no obligation. Simply complete a clock repair and restoration service form and ship it with your clock to our facility.
How to keep an antique clock working?
The secret to keeping an antique clock working is to keep it running and not let it stay idle, as the mechanism will dry out and the clock will be harder to repair. Wind firmly to the point of resistance: the key will stop when the clock is fully wound.
How to keep a clock from moving?
Remember to secure the bottom, as opening the door and winding will cause the clock to move. Screwing a long case or wall clock to the wall stud (or using a molly bolt if a stud isn’t available) helps keep it secure and running smoothly.
How to adjust time on a clock?
Adjusting the time is straightforward. Lengthening the pendulum slows down the clock; shortening it makes the clock run faster. Remember to always turn the hands clockwise, never counterclockwise, to set the time, so as not to bend or break strike-mechanism levers.
How to tell if a clock is running?
A clock that uses a pendulum must be level to function; you can tell it’s running properly when you hear an even gap between each tick and tock. Otherwise, the clock verge may not clear the escape wheel teeth as the pendulum swings, and the clock could stop. Use a level to get it “in beat.” For small adjustments, a shim may be used for shelf and tall-case (grandfather) clocks; coins and washers sometimes do the trick. If a significant tilt is required to get an even beat, this usually means an adjustment in the suspension is needed. That’s work for a professional.
What is a low art tile clock?
A Low Art Tile clock, ca. 1880, keeps time on a brass hall table of the period. The placement of an antique clock is critical. Heat, direct sunlight, and humidity quickly take their toll both on the case—bleaching wood and drying any veneer—and the mechanisms.
What is the name of the clock that has a musketeer?
An American figural clock, by Ansonia, ca. 1880, includes a musketeer. Flanking it are Parian-ware figures.
Do I collect old clocks?
Yes, I collect old clocks, among my other obsessions—but they are not just objects of art. I find antique clocks comforting; their gentle ticking and chiming are agreeable reminders of the passage of time. Here I’ll share basic aspects of clock care that keep things running smoothly.