Table of Contents
How do you release weights on a Grandfather Clock?
Keep an eye on the height of the weights and wind the clock every seven days. A clock can be overwound, resulting in the weights being stuck in the highest position. When this happens, gently move the minute hand past the quarter hour and listen for the chime. This should release the weight.
Can you lay a Grandfather Clock down for transport?
Newer grandfather clocks can be moved lying down but this puts unnecessary pressure on the panels and glass elements, increasing the risk of breaking. Older clocks need to be moved upright because of the weight of the movement and the way it is attached to the case.
How do you disassemble a Grandfather Clock?
How to Disassemble a Grandfather Clock Open the case cabinet on the front of the clock. Open the front of the clock over the face, and then loosen the bolt holding the clock hands with a nut driver. Look on the clock face for screws at its perimeter. Unscrew the face of the clock or the backing plate behind the clock.
How do you prepare a Grandfather Clock for moving?
How to move a grandfather clock like a pro Remove the weights from the clock. Wrap the weights in a moving blanket to protect them from damage. Place moving blankets inside the clock to stabilize glass from the inside. Wrap the outside of the clock to protect it from damage.
Should the weights on a grandfather clock drop evenly?
Yes, the order is critical for proper function. On 99% of floor clocks (grandfather/grandmother) with three weights, the heavier weight goes on the right-hand chain hook or pulley as you are FACING the clock. The two heavier weights go on the center and right hooks or pulleys.
What do the three weights on a grandfather clock do?
The three weights provide power to the hour strike (left weight), time (center weight), and chime melody (right weight). Without these weights, the Grandfather Clock would not operate. Each weight is different and must be properly hung from the movement (left, center, right) to ensure proper operation.
How much does a grandfather clock weigh?
Grandfather clocks can easily weigh between 200 and 300 pounds. In fact, it’s not uncommon to see a grandfather clock that weighs several hundred pounds.
Are grandfather clocks worth anything?
A grandfather clock can sell for anywhere from $200 to more than $20,000. This is what makes valuing a grandfather clock so difficult. As you can see from the long list of factors that go into the pricing, there is quite a bit to consider when coming up with a value for a clock.
How do you clean and oil a grandfather clock movement?
Use a non-ammonia glass cleaner and a soft lint-free cloth. Spray the cleaner directly on the cloth, then wipe down the glass outside the clock. Open both the large door that covers the pendulum and the small door that covers the clock face. Wipe down the inside.
Are grandfather clocks outdated?
Grandfather clocks are still being made and can be purchased online and through stores that feature fine furniture. It can be hard to find parts for old grandfather clocks that have not been maintained, and they may require expensive overhauling to keep accurate time.
What’s the difference between a grandmother and grandfather clock?
Both grandmother and grandfather clocks are long case pendulum clocks, but grandfather clocks are generally taller than grandmother clocks, measuring in between 6 and 7 feet, while grandmother clocks typically measure between 5 and 6 feet. Grandmother clocks rightfully derived their name from the grandfather moniker.
Why does my grandfather clock only move weight?
If the clock is running but not chiming, then only the center weight will drop. Typically, what we find is that the grandfather clock has not been serviced and the oil has dried up in the movement and therefore the chiming side of the clock is hung up, or worst, worn out.
Why do clocks have 2 weights?
The left weight provides power for the hour strike, the middle weight provides power for the clock’s pendulum and general timekeeping functions, while the right weight provides power for the quarter-hour chime sequences.
How do you fix a grandfather clock that chimes the wrong hour?
There is a simple fix for this issue if your grandfather clock is striking the wrong hour. When your grandfather clock strikes the next hour, count the number of strikes. Move only the shorter hour hand to the number on the dial that you just counted when the clock chimed.
Which weight is heaviest on a grandfather clock?
The heaviest weight is “R,” the next heaviest is “C” and the lightest is “L.” Open the door to the clock. Grab the chain on the left-hand side. It has a small brass plate with a hole in it attached to one end.
Where does the heavier weight go on a grandfather clock?
If there is no markings to identify the weights, hang the heaviest weight on the right side as it needs more power to run all of the chime hammers. The other two equal or lighter weights should be placed in any order on the left side and center position. This will usually work on most grandfather clocks.
How do I reset my grandfather clock after moving?
Rotate the minute hand counterclockwise to avoid playing the melody. Most grandfather clocks play a melody and chime on the hour. In order to set the time without playing the melody, move the minute hand counterclockwise. Winding the minute hand 1 full rotation counterclockwise will set the clock back by 1 hour.
