Expert: Steve Skibicki - 4/1/2008

Question
QUESTION: Steve
Just purchased a Used Grandfather Clock #7716233. Tried to find John Collins but his email no longer works any more. Got lots of Questions.  Like what is the Moon dial settings and there was a  like second hand (red) in the bottom of the clock.  Looks like it might go some where on the moon dial with the numbers.   Where can I get info on this clock.  It was well maintained.  Oil and cleaned every three years. Even had the un opened oiler box in the bottom of the clock from Colonial. Neat little box. Any help would be greatly Appr.
TR
Bethesda Md

ANSWER: Hello,

I spent some time looking up your clock in my reference works. So far I have not run across the number you gave me.
Is this an electric clock?
The red hand sounds like a second hand.If this is an electric clock the second hand would fit in an opening through the minute hand.
The moon dial is based on the lunar calendar. You should be able to gently turn it to the right using your finger tips. Consult an almanac, The Washington Post weather section or the internet to find the correct phase of the moon.
Please ask your remaining questions.
Steve

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QUESTION: Steve
The clock was made I believe in 77. I is a weight driven clock with 3 chime settings. Beveled glass door and sides typical grandfather clock.  The cabinet is I believe maybe Ash. It is not cherry or oak. It is gorgeous, and has a German movement. We love it. The next problem is the minute hand is about 1 minute behind the proper settings. It strikes at one minute after.
Suggestions.
TR lamb

Answer
Hello,

Unscrew the brass nut that holds the hands. Remove only the minute hand. There is a brass bushing in the hand where it fits to the post. It will be hexagonal shaped. The trick is to move this bushing a very slight bit. Carefully use pliers and turn it just a tiny amount. This will align the hand on the correct minute. It may take a few tries to get it right. Of course don't forget to put the nut back on after.