Keep It Level

Clocks with pendulums must be level side-to-side and front-to-back before operation.

Wind Fully

Always wind clocks fully until the key stops for proper performance.

Avoid Backwards Setting

Antique clocks should never be set backwards to prevent internal damage.

Leveling & Pendulum Setup

Clocks with pendulums must be level before being set up. This applies to wall, mantel, and grandfather/floor standing clocks.

On antique clocks, the pendulum should only be pushed far enough to begin ticking. Pushing it too far can knock the verge out of beat, which may require adjustment by a clockmaker and may incur charges.

Overwinding Myth

It is a common myth that a clock can be “overwound.” True overwinding only occurs when a spring is broken or has come loose from its connection point.

Winding Your Clock

• 8-day clocks: Wind fully once per week
• 1-day / 30-hour clocks: Wind fully once per day
• 31-day clocks: Wind once per month or weekly for easier maintenance

Clocks may wind clockwise or counterclockwise depending on the movement. Always wind until the key stops.

Clocks that are not fully wound may lose or gain time, stop running, or have hands that become misaligned. This is common with older and antique movements.

Avoid Letting Clocks Wind Down

Mechanical clocks that wind completely down may jam and stop working. In some cases, you may not even hear ticking.

If you will be away and unable to wind your clock, it is best to stop the clock and restart it when you return.

Weight Driven Clocks (Chains & Weights)

For chain-driven clocks such as cuckoo and grandfather clocks, do not allow slack in the chains.

The weights provide the tension that keeps chains properly positioned. You may guide weights upward, but do not assist or lift them.

Allowing slack can cause chains to slip off the ratchet wheels, potentially causing weights to drop and damage the clock.

Setting the Time

Antique clocks should never be set backwards. Turning the hands counterclockwise can damage gears and internal components.

Modern clocks may allow both directions, but if unsure, always move the minute hand forward (clockwise).

If your clock chimes or strikes, allow it to complete each cycle before advancing the time further.

Clock Hands

Hour hands are typically friction-fitted and should not be moved independently. When advancing the minute hand, the hour hand will move automatically.

Cuckoo Clock Setup

Cuckoo clocks should be hung high enough so the chains hang freely and do not touch the ground. If chains rest on the ground, the clock will not run properly.

Timekeeping Adjustments

After repair, timekeeping may require small adjustments at home. This is normal.

Older or worn movements may run slightly fast or slow and may not keep quartz-level accuracy.