Expert: Martin Meyer - 10/1/2008

Question
I have a New England Clock Co.,wall-hanging, 8 day wind up clock, which is approximately 45 years old. I am the only one who winds it. It is properly balanced and not over-wound. It just stop working. Can you tell me why and what I can do?

Answer
Hi Gronny,

There are many possible causes of a clock's stopping, and I have no way of knowing which one is affecting your clock. The most common cause is that the pendulum is out of beat. A clock can be level, yet still be out of beat. Please browse my previous answers for detailed discussions of setting the beat on wall clocks.

"Overwinding" is probably the most common misconception about clocks. There is really no such thing; when a clock is fully wound and does not run, the mainsprings simply remain wound because the clock is not running. The mainsprings should be wound all the way, as far as they will go.

The other possibility that I would consider seriously, is that the movement needs lubrication or is simply worn out. Clocks should be lubricated by a professional clock repairer every few years. 45 years is very old for a modern clock movement; the average lifespan is about 20 years. If you have not had the movement replaced already, there is a strong possibility that it's bearings are worn, and the movement needs replacing or an overhaul.  http://www.clockmasteronline.com