Frequently Asked Questions

 

Q: How do I reset my clock when daylight savings time begins/ends?

A: Battery (Quartz) Clocks: Always use the hand set knob on the back of the clock mechanism to reset the time.  If the hand set knob is not accessible, carefully move the long minute hand to set the time.   For quartz clocks that just keep the time, the hands may be moved clockwise or counter clockwise.  For quartz clocks that chime, do not turn the hands counter clockwise, as it may damage the mechanism.  Instead, turn the hands clockwise to reset the time, and stop each hour to allow the clock to chime..

     Keywind Modern Clocks (spring or weight driven): Most modern clocks (less than 40 years old) may be set by turning the long minute hand clockwise or counter clockwise to reset the time.  When setting the hands clockwise, stop every quarter hour to allow the clock to chime before advancing.  When setting the hands counter clockwise, you do not need to stop.  However, the chimes may get out of sequence, but they will self correct within 1 hour.  If you encounter resistance while turning the minute hand backwards, STOP.  Move the minute hand clockwise 5 minutes at which time the clock may chime.  After the chimes stop, move the minute hand counter clockwise again.  This should eliminate any resistance.  If resistance continues, call us for direction.

     Antique Clocks: If your antique clock only keeps time and does not have a chime or strike component, you may turn the hands either clockwise or counter clockwise to set the time.  If your antique clock chimes or strikes DO NOT TURN THE MINUTE HAND BACKWARDS!  This could damage the mechanism.  You should turn the hands clockwise stopping each quarter or half hour to allow the clock to chime/strike, or if the clock has a swinging pendulum, you may stop the pendulum and wait for the time to agree with the time on your clock, then restart the pendulum.  If you have any additional questions regarding the proper way to set your clock, please call Hands of Time Clocks at 301-206-3281.

Q: How often should I have my Keywound clock serviced?

A: All keywound (mechanical) clocks should be serviced every two to three years to prevent premature wear.  This includes all clocks that are wound, including grandfather, wall, mantel, and cuckoo clocks.

Q: How often should I replace the batteries in my battery powered (quartz) clock?

A: Batteries should be replaced in quartz clocks once a year, either in the spring or fall when the time change occurs.  This prevents batteries from being left in the clock too long and potentially leaking and ruining the mechanism.

Q: How do I adjust the timekeeping accuracy of my mechanical pendulum clock?

A: In most cases, at the base of the pendulum you will find an adjustment nut.  In general, one turn of this nut changes the rate at which the clock runs by approxamitely 1 minute per day.  If the clock is running slow, to make it run faster turn the nut to the right, shortening the pendulum.  To make the clock run slower turn the nut to the left, lengthening the pendulum.  An easy expression to remember is "Lower is Slower."

Q: How long should my mechanical clock run if serviced regularly?

A: If a mechanical clock is kept serviced every two to three years, it will generally last for 35-40 years, sometimes even more.  Once a clock becomes worn, it will need to be overhauled, where it is taken competely apart and re-machined to like-new tolerances.

Q: Can I "over-wind" my clock?

A: No, there is no such thing as over-winding a clock.  Clocks need to be wound fully in order to run for a full cycle.  If the clock is fully wound and not working, it has some other mechanical problem, it is not over-wound. 

Q: Can I spray WD-40 or other aerosol spray lubricants on my mechanical clock movement?

A: No, it is never advisable to spray a clock movement with aerosol sprays.  Sprays coat the movement and attract dust and dirt, which will become gummy and impede operation of the movement.  The movement should only be oiled at the bearings and other specific points.

Q: Should I remove the pendulum before moving my clock?

A: Yes, always remove the pendulum from your mechanical clock before moving it anywhere.  Otherwise damage could occur to the movement requiring costly repairs.

If you have any questions that are not answered here, please call us at 301-206-3281 and we will be happy to assist you.  Thank you!!!