A: Jim, the clock oil makers recommend that your clock be looked at by a trained serviceman every two to five years. In our practical experience, five years is about right. Of course if you notice that your clock is having difficulties (will no longer keep accurate time or won't run for the full period of winding) then stop the clock immediately and have it serviced. These are symptoms that the oil has failed and is not lubricating the clock correctly. Further operation in this condition will cause damage that can be quite expensive to repair.
A: Most clocks are pendulum controlled. Usually there is a nut at the bottom of the pendulum that can be used to raise the pendulum weight (bob) slightly. Turn the nut 1/4 turn to the right and wait a couple of days to see if the timekeeping improves. Repeat as needed until the clock keeps good time.
A few mantle clocks have a small hole near the top of the dial usually labled "S" and "F." There is a small square arbor in the hole and your clock key should then have another smaller square on the end opposite the winding square. Use it to turn the small arbor towards the "F" for faster. Rarely the hole is labled "R" for retard and "A" for advance. In that case, turn it towards the "A." If you have this feature and don't have the right key, we can get one for you. If your clock has neither of these features, call us and we'll walk you through it. If your clock runs fast, simply do the opposite of these instructions
Mechanical clocks will vary in timekeeping ability throughout the year due to variations in temperature, humidity and even barometric pressure! Expect some change, as much as 5 minutes per week throughout the year. Simply reset the time at each winding.
A: Carol, most newer grandfather clocks have a built-in synchronizer. Should the chime get out of sequence, the clock usually won't chime until the hour at which time it "catches up" by chiming the missing quarters until it is right again. Do not turn the hands backwards in any case. Damage may occur requiring repair. Many antique clocks don't have this feature. If your clock is antique, call us if you have trouble.
A: The "spring forward" is easy. Simply move the small hand forward one hour stopping to let the clock chime or strike as appropriate. The "fall back" is even simpler. Carefully stop the clock's pendulum and restart it after the actual time catches up. Never turn the hands backwards. You could cause damage to the clock that may require repair.
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517-974-5563
or e-mail us at
weeksclockrepair@yahoo.com