Clock Facts
Learning About Your New Clock
Congratulations on the purchase of your antique clock! It has been lovingly restored to a work of art. The clocks that we offer were given up as junk and sold for parts. Hundreds of hours have gone into each clock to preserve its rich history. Pieces were missing, finishes deteriorated beyond restoration, dials unreadable, busted movements, broken glass… However, each clock has been restored with the goal of trying to keep as much of the original detail as possible.
ABOUT MECHANICAL CLOCKS
We have worked hard to get your clock to keep accurate time. However, you must understand that mechanical clocks have always been inherently inaccurate and therefore cannot be compared to electronic clocks. They were made by hand without using electric tools and without the aid of computerized machines. These clocks range in date from between the 1800s to the early 1900s. Towns and cities used to ring bells at high noon every day for residents to check and adjust their clocks. So, just enjoy the beauty of your clock!
UNPACKING YOUR CLOCK
You will find that the suspension rod has been fastened down to keep the clock from running. Carefully remove the restriction. The pendulum bob has been included separately.
The key to wind your clock has also been included separately with your free key tassel.
FINDING A PLACE FOR YOUR CLOCK
When you set up your clock for the first time, you will need to find a sturdy, flat surface for it. This is critical. It is best to use a bubble level to verify that the spot you have chosen is perfectly level. The clock will not stay in beat if the case tilts in any direction.
If your clock is to be mounted on the wall, make sure you locate a stud in the wall and use a strong, sturdy, appropriately-sized screw. If possible, it is best to place your clock away from outside walls where temperatures vary. Avoid areas of vibration, like next to a closing door. Also, try to avoid excessive drafts of air or moisture and try to keep out of dusty environments.
ATTACHING THE PENDULUM BOB
Once your clock is in place, attach the pendulum bob to the suspension rod using the following methods:
If your clock has a door in the front (kitchen clocks or cottage clocks), attach it from the front.
If your clock has a back access door (mantel clocks or banjo clocks), attach the bob from the back.
If your clock only has access from the bottom, attach bob from underneath.
SETTING THE TIME
Here are a few things to know about setting the time:
Never try to move the hands backward.
Always rotate the minute hand slowly forward.
Do not push hard on the tip of the hand.
Stop when the chime begins and allow it to finish before continuing to move the hands to the correct time.
Listen for the number of chimes. If the hour hand does not match the number of chimes, follow the steps in adjusting the strike count.
Once you have attached your pendulum bob, start its movement by swinging gently to one side. A key to wind your clock as also been packed separately. Carefully wind your clock. Your clock may wind clockwise and/or counterclockwise. See your tag for more information. Carefully insert the key fully onto the winding arbor. DO NOT force the key when winding. If it doesn’t move easily, carefully try turning in the opposite direction. Turn the key until you feel the spring tighten and there is resistance. DO NOT overwind.
Adjust the time by carefully rotating the minute clockwise around until the clock chimes. This may be on the hour or half-hour. Stop. Let the clock finish chiming before continuing. Continue to the correct time. Allow your clock to run for a twenty-four-hour period. Check to see if the time is accurate.
ADJUSTING THE TIME
Environmental changes can affect these clocks, and you may need to make a slight adjustment to the pendulum bob if the time is not within one or two minutes of being accurate. You can make an adjustment to the time by either raising or lowering the pendulum bob. If you raise the bob, the clock will run faster. Likewise, if you lower the bob, the clock will run slower.
If you have an adjustable bob, you can turn the nut below the bob to make this adjustment. Turn it clockwise to raise the bob so that the clock will run faster. Turn it counterclockwise to lower the bob so that the clock will run slower. Rule of thumb: one rotation equals one minute on most clocks.
If you have a non-adjustable bob, there should be a thumb-wheel at the top of the face of the clock. It will be marked with an F for fast and S for slow. If your clock is running slow, turn the wheel slightly toward the F to speed up your clock. Do the opposite if running fast. This procedure may take several attempts before the desired accuracy is achieved.
You may have also received a double-ended key. The small key can be used for adjusting the bob higher or lower. It should be in the same location as the thumb-wheel at the top of the face. It is adjusted the same as above.
ADJUSTING THE STRIKE COUNT
The hour hand is simply pushed onto the hour post and is free to rotate. Therefore, it might get out of sequence with the clock mechanism and the number of chimes.
To fix this, move the minute hand around until it passes the 12 o'clock position and begins to chime. Stop. Count the number of chimes. Rotate the hour hand until it corresponds with the correct number of chimes. Then rotate the minute hand until the clock reads the correct time. Your clock should be adjusted correctly.
MAINTENANCE
It is recommended that you have your clock movement cleaned and oiled by a professional. Oiling should be done every three to five years and a complete cleaning at least every ten years.
When moving your clock, always remove the pendulum bob.
When having the clock adjusted by a professional, the BPH (beats per hour) is provided on the tag and you can fill it in on the front of the booklet provided with your clock. This number may prove helpful to the horologist.
This clock will provide many years of service and beauty and will be a timeless treasure you can enjoy for years to come.