Antique watches need a winding to work. This category also includes pendulum clocks, clocks with an independent structure whose operation is controlled by the fall of weights and the swing of a pendulum inside a tall case. Follow these instructions to learn how to wind any kind of grandfather clock.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Charging a Crank Pendulum
Step 1. Look for the charging pins
If your grandfather clock requires the use of a crank or key to wind, then there should be one to three holes on the dial. Usually, they are close to 3 (III), 9 (IX) and in the center, or more generally in the lower half of the quadrant. If you don't see holes, and your watch doesn't have a crank or key, follow the instructions to wind a chain.
Step 2. Get a crank or wrench of the right size
Watches you buy new should already have a key or crank, but for second-hand ones (or simply if you've lost your winding tools), you can browse the internet or contact a watchmaker. Open the small door that protects the dial and accurately measure the diameter of the holes, using a ruler or a measuring tape, or, better yet, a 0.25 mm sensitivity gauge. Purchase a crank or wrench of this width for a safer and more practical charge. You should consider purchasing 3 or 4 winding tools in different sizes, to be on the safe side if your measurement is not accurate.
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Please note:
when you buy a crank, make sure that the length of the shaft is enough to hold it above the hands, so you can turn it 360 ° without damaging them.
- Some manufacturers sell keys according to numbered scales, rather than indicating the width of the shaft. However, since there is no one-size-fits-all system for key scaling, it is preferable to refer to the exact millimeter size.
Step 3. Use the crank or wrench to load the first weight
Gently insert the crank rod / wrench into any of the holes. The housing is quite "snug", but do not force the tool into the holes. With one hand, hold the dial steady, while with the other gently turn the crank. Try both ways to figure out which one allows for smoother movement. The winding can be given clockwise or counterclockwise, each watch has its own mechanism. As you turn the crank, you should see one of the weights rising from the bottom. Stop loading before the weight makes contact with the wooden base, or when the key no longer turns easily.
- If you can't turn the key or don't see any weights rising, check that one of the weights isn't already on top. If one or more chimes are silenced, the corresponding weights do not lower, so they do not need to be loaded.
- The weights are usually placed in front of the pendulum. Depending on the models, you may need to open the lower case to be able to see them.
Step 4. Repeat for the other charging points
If your watch has more than one weight, there will be multiple winding pins on the dial. Transfer the wrench or crank to the other holes, and charge until each weight touches the wooden base above it.
Step 5. If necessary, carefully make adjustments
Take advantage of the opportunity and make sure the clock is still keeping the correct time. If necessary, only move the minute hand, moving it clockwise only and bringing it to the right position. When it arrives at 12 (XII), stop and let the hour strike before continuing. Do the same for any other hourly chimes (generally quarter of an hour, i.e. at 3, 6 and 9).
- Some watches allow you to turn the minute hand even counterclockwise, but if you're not sure if yours is one of them, don't risk it. If the minute hand resists when turned clockwise, but runs smoothly counterclockwise, you may have an unusual pattern on your hands that needs to be adjusted counterclockwise.
- If the clock runs too fast or, conversely, too slow, locate the screw (or knob) at the bottom of the swinging pendulum. Screw it (clockwise) if you want to slow down the clock, unscrew it (counterclockwise) to speed it up.
Step 6. Charge once a week, or as needed
Most grandfather clocks run for seven to eight days after winding, so charging on the same day each week is the safest way to keep them from running out. If your watch stops earlier than expected, charge it more frequently.
Method 2 of 2: Charging a Pendulum Chain
Step 1. Locate the hanging chains next to the weights
Open the flap that protects the long weights (not the pendulum) inside the watch case. Many watches have one, two or three weights, but there can be even more. If you see a chain next to each weight, it is likely a chain-wound watch.
If you can't find a chain or winding holes, get someone to help you or see a watchmaker
Step 2. Gently pull one of the chains
Grab the suspended chain near a weight that isn't already on top of the crate. Pull the chain down, allowing the weight to rise. Stop when the weight has reached the upper base or when the chain begins to offer more resistance.
- Pull the chain next to the weight, not the one the weight is attached to.
- It does not matter the order of the weights to be loaded.
Step 3. Repeat with the other weights
Each weight has its own chain. Gently pull each one until the corresponding weight has reached the top plank. The watch has been fully charged when all weights are set high.
Usually, the central weight is what controls the accuracy of the watch. The other weights, if present, control the striking of the hour or other hourly fractions
Step 4. Adjust the time if necessary
To change the time, turn the minute hand with one hand, not the hour hand. Turn it clockwise, unless you feel resistance, and at the same time, with your free hand, hold the watch face steady. Be gentle in your movements so as not to bend or break the hand, and, at the points set, wait for the chimes to stop before proceeding any further.
At the base of the pendulum there is a screw that if screwed it slows down the clock, if unscrewed it accelerates it. Make the necessary adjustments if you find that you need to adjust the time after a week or two
Advice
- If you do not want the clock to strike on the hour or every quarter of an hour, do not charge the weights that regulate this function. Or see if there is a lever on the back or on the side of the clock that allows you to silence the chimes permanently or at night.
- If your watch also has a moon dial on the dial, adjust it to the correct moon phase by turning the hand clockwise. The same goes for every other small watch on the dial.
Warnings
- If you have difficulty turning the crank or pulling the chain down, do not force the mechanisms; rather contact a professional.
- Do not force the key or crank into the charging holes.
