clock repair

A longcase clock is also called a grandfather clock. Other terms are also associated to it like the grandmother or the granddaughter clocks. They generally differ according to their size. Those that are smaller than 5 feet are called granddaughter clocks, those that are between 5 feet and 6 feet are grandmother clocks, and those that are over 6 feet are called grandfather clocks.

When your grandfather clock breaks, the repair is typically left to professional clock and watchmakers because of the intricate mechanisms behind the valuable timepiece. Those clocks that are over 50 years old are already considered antiques and they have different rules on how to repair them as compared to modern clocks. A professional repair facility can diagnose and address many clock issues but there are some repairs that owners can undertake too without the help of these professionals, which can give them an option to save on money.

The Repair Process

When doing your own repair, all you need is a trusty set of screwdrivers and just follow these simple steps:

  1. First check the weights of the grandfather clock. The weights’ position indicates if the time is altered or incorrect. Each weight has a marking on the bottom to indicate right or left weight and there area some clocks that have a weight marked at the center. You need to place each weight on the proper side in order for the clock to run smoothly.
  2. Next, free the hands on the clock’s face. If the pendulum is not swinging, the hands may have locked together. You need to gently open the face glass and move the hands away from one another. Ensure that the weights have been pulled up.
  3. If the grandfather clock runs too slowly, move the pendulum bob up the shaft. Move the bob down the shaft if it runs too fast or quickly. You need to use a screwdriver in order to free the bob.
  4. Repair the moon dial if the sequence is incorrect. You need to determine exactly what phase the moon is currently in. Open the face glass of the clock and press lightly against the moon dial and gently rotate towards the current moon phase.
  5. Finally, you need to level the grandfather clock. If it sits even slightly off level, it may eventually stop telling the correct time. Ensure that the pendulum swings properly at its best level position to keep it working all right.

Some Tips and Warnings

When you are repairing your grandfather clock, you need to remember some important things. You need to listen closely to the ticking of the clock. Listen to a more balanced sound if a perfectly level surface can’t be found. Don’t move the grandfather clock too often. This may affect the balance of the pendulum and it can affect the clock’s performance. Never move the clock alone. It is very heavy and you could get crushed during the process. Ask an assistant to help you in moving the clock. If the repair of the clock is hopeless on your part, call on the help of clock shops. Don’t stress yourself too much in repairing the clock without the proper knowledge. You might just destroy it and it may never be repaired again.

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