Instructions: setting up a serviced wall clock
These instructions will help you after a repair, a move or when putting your mechanical wall or longcase clock back into use. Also follow the operating instructions for your particular clock.
Positioning the clock:
Choose a suitable position for the clock against a stable wall, preferably in a dry room away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. Make sure the clock hangs straight so that the movement runs evenly.
Attaching the pendulum and weights (where applicable):
Carefully hang the pendulum on its intended suspension and make sure it can swing freely. Attach the weights to the corresponding chains or cables.
Winding the clock:
Wind the clock with the correct key or crank in the direction intended for this movement. Stop when you feel a definite end stop. Please do not use excessive force, pliers or levers.
Setting the time:
Slowly turn the minute hand clockwise until it shows the desired time. Avoid moving the hour or seconds hand directly. If your clock has a striking mechanism, allow each striking sequence to finish completely before moving on. Do not turn the hands backwards unless your clock is specifically designed to be operated that way.
Starting the movement:
Give the pendulum a gentle push to start it swinging. Make sure it swings evenly and does not touch any obstacles.
Regulating the rate (if necessary):
If your clock gains or loses time over the course of a week, you can adjust its rate with the pendulum regulating nut: raising the pendulum bob makes the clock run faster; lowering it makes the clock run slower. Check the rate again after about a week. If there are two regulating nuts, first loosen the lower nut slightly and make the fine adjustment with the upper one. Then tighten the lower nut against it again; it prevents the adjustment from turning. You will find more detailed instructions in the article Regulating the rate of clocks.
If the ticking is uneven (the clock is out of beat):
If your clock ticks unevenly, first check that it is correctly aligned and that the pendulum can swing freely. If the ticking remains uneven, please contact us before making adjustments to the movement.
We hope your repaired mechanical wall clock will give you many years of enjoyment. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.