How to Wind a Grandfather Clock

Winding process

Frequency and timing

• Weekly winding: Most grandfather clocks have 8-day movements requiring winding once a week, traditionally on Sunday morning
• Consistent timing: Wind on the same day each week to maintain regularity in your grandfather clock winding routine
• 30-hour clocks: If you have a 30-hour clock, wind it every 24 hours at the same time daily

Winding technique

• Use the winding key: Insert the winding key for grandfather clock that fits securely into the winding hole in the dial
• Turn clockwise: Rotate the key clockwise until you feel resistance, following proper grandfather clock winding instructions
• Open the trunk door: Wind with the main trunk door open to observe the weight's position
• Stop before the top: Cease winding just before the weight pulley reaches the seatboard at the top
• Support the weight: For 30-hour clocks, support the weight with your other hand while winding to avoid strain on the mechanism

Winding best practices

• Wind gently and steadily: Avoid rapid or forceful winding to prevent damage when learning how to wind a grandfather clock
• Learn the number of turns: Familiarize yourself with how many turns it takes to fully wind your clock
• Adjust time while winding: For 8-day clocks, gently push the minute hand forward at normal pace while winding to avoid losing time

Maintenance tips

Regular care

• Lubrication: Have the clock oiled every 2 years by a professional to keep it running smoothly
• Cleaning: Dust the outer case weekly and clean the clock face with an ostrich feather duster
• Polishing: Apply wax and polish to the case every 2-3 months

Troubleshooting

• Adjusting speed: Move the pendulum disk up to speed up or down to slow down the clock
• Resetting time: If the clock stops, reset the time using only the minute hand, moving it gently
• Silencing chimes: Use the manual lever near the 3 or 9 o'clock positions to silence chimes if needed

Professional maintenance

• Regular servicing: Have the clock serviced every 10 years by a professional to ensure proper functioning and maintain your knowledge of how to wind a grandfather clock
• Weight alignment: Ensure weights are properly aligned, with the heavier weight typically on the right
• Proper placement: Keep the clock on a flat, level surface to prevent internal pressure on small parts and facilitate easy grandfather clock winding

FAQ

How often should I wind my grandfather clock?

Most grandfather clocks with 8-day movements should be wound once a week, typically on the same day each week. For 30-hour clocks, wind them daily at the same time.

What is the correct way to use the winding key for grandfather clock?

Insert the winding key into the winding hole on the clock face. Turn the key clockwise gently and steadily until you feel resistance. Stop winding just before the weight reaches the top of the clock case.

Can I damage my clock by winding it incorrectly?

Yes, improper winding can damage your clock. Always follow grandfather clock winding instructions carefully. Wind gently and steadily, avoid rapid or forceful movements, and stop winding when you feel resistance.

How do I know if I'm following the grandfather clock winding instructions correctly?

Open the main trunk door while winding to observe the weight's position. Stop winding just before the weight pulley reaches the seatboard at the top. With practice, you'll learn how many turns it takes to fully wind your clock.

What should I do if my grandfather clock stops after winding?

First, ensure you've wound the clock fully. If it still doesn't run, gently reset the time using only the minute hand. If problems persist, check the pendulum's alignment and consider having the clock serviced by a professional.