antique clock dr. lori column

This vintage wall clock has a marquetry-decorated wooden case.

 DRLORIV.COM

I have appraised all types of clocks — tallcase clocks, carriage clocks, mantel clocks and more — for clients in all parts of the world. These clock collectors have been surprised, or even stunned, when an otherwise reliable clock just stops working — possibly for no good reason. There is a very good reason why a clock suddenly stops working. Moving a clock is the single most common reason why a clock fails to keep time.

Clocks are homebodies. Once you move a clock to a new part of your home, the clock may stop working. Clocks of all types find comfort in a certain spot. Clocks react to the temperature and humidity. Moving a clock to a different location may change the clock’s accuracy; some clocks may stop working altogether. Once you find a place in your home where a clock is working well, don’t move it.

More clock tips

There are some simple ways to keep your clocks working well.

Do you want a clock to keep accurate time? Wind it on a regular schedule — just “like clockwork,” as the old saying goes. Pick a day of the week and time of day to wind your clock and stay on that schedule.

Be sure to keep a clock fully wound. Don’t be overzealous when winding. If a clock will not easily wind with the key or the hands of a clock do not move, don’t force them. Consult an expert.

Place your mantel or carriage clock on a level surface. A clock’s pendulum will not swing properly on a surface that is not level.

Do not place a clock near a window, drafty area of a room or access doors. Clocks don’t like to be close to air conditioning units, HVAC returns or vents, radiators, attics or garage access doors.

Remember the old rhyme: Clockwise for time, counterclockwise for chime. In short, the rhyme means that you should move the hands of a clock clockwise to set the time and move the hands of a clock counterclockwise to set the chime. This will help your clock run properly.

Protect the pendulum

If you intend to move or relocate your clock, it is wise to remove the pendulum first. Protect the pendulum while you move the clock.

The pendulum’s length is an indicator of how the clock will run. The longer the pendulum, the slower the clock will run. The shorter the pendulum, the faster the clock will run. Some clocks have an adjustment with F (fast) and S (slow) marked on the interior clock works.

You can adjust your clock. This simple adjustment of the F/S lever can help when a clock runs too slow or too fast.

Also, if you have a key to your clock, don’t give it up to anyone. It is a vital piece of equipment for your clock that is necessary to keep your clock working. Like your car keys, it will be a big headache if you lose your clock key.

Listen to the beat. If your clock misses a beat, that may indicate that your clock is on an uneven surface. Clocks that use pendulums or atmospheric-driven clocks, known as atmos clocks, need to be on a level surface to run properly. If your floors are warped or your mantel is crooked, your clock may not run properly. Mantels, bookcases, tables or other flat surfaces must be level in order for for most clocks to keep accurate time.

Remember, moving a clock may damage the clock. If you intend to synchronize or move a clock, be it a wall clock or a tallcase clock, it is wise to consult with a clock professional first. Clocks featuring chimes and gongs may require special expertise.

With a Ph.D. from Penn State University, Lori Verderame is an antiques appraiser, author and award-winning TV personality who has appeared on the TV shows “The Curse of Oak Island,” “Pawn Stars Do America” and Netflix’s “King of Collectibles.” You can watch her “Real Bargains” show at YouTube.com/DrLoriV. She gives appraisal information at DrLoriV.com or call 888-431-1010.

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