How to Wind a Clock Correctly
Winding is where most owners accidentally cause damage, and it takes 30 seconds to learn properly.
Key-wound clocks
Insert the key fully, support the clock with your other hand and turn smoothly until you feel firm resistance. Stop there. Do not force a final quarter turn — that is how mainsprings and click springs break.
Cable and chain clocks
Crank each weight up until it is roughly two inches below the top, watching the weight rather than the crank. On chain clocks pull the chain, never crank.
Rhythm matters
Wind on the same day each week. A clock run down to nothing before each winding keeps worse time, because spring torque varies most at the extremes.
When to call a clockmaker
If a clock has stopped, is losing more than a few minutes a week, sounds wrong when it strikes, or has been stored and not run, stop experimenting and have it inspected. Forcing a dry movement is the most expensive mistake a clock owner can make. We are at (214) 779-9792.
More guides
Have a clock question we did not cover?
Call (214) 779-9792 — we answer clock questions whether or not you become a customer.