Expert: William J Perkins - 10/16/2008

Question
I just purchased a Trend Grandfather Clock made in Zeeland, MI and I'm planning to give it to my daughter for Christmas.  It is about 6'3" tall, has oriental designs on the case, raised metal numbers on the face, there is a circle that turns above some globes over the numbers (with a moon and ship, etc.), and it has 3 heavy weights and chains inside the case with several chime rods and a pendulum.  I've been promised that it works, but it has been partially taken apart (the pendulum, one chain and one heavy weight aren't attached).  I assume the mechanism could use a cleaning, since it's old, but it looks to be in fantastic condition.  Should I locate a clock repairman to work on it before or after it's moved to my daughter's home (about an 90 minute drive away)?  Does moving it hurt it, as long as you're careful?  We gently stuffed some newspaper around the weights and chimes when I brought it home (about an hour drive).  Do clock repairmen still do any work on site, i.e., in the home?  Should I find a local (near my daughter) repairman instead of one here?  Obviously, I don't know anything about grandfather clocks and any information on the care, maintenance, setup and repair would be appreciated.  I saw from a prior answer by Tom Anderson (1997) on your website, that the Trend clock company was bought by Sligh in 1968.  This clock doesn't say anything about Sligh, so I think it must be over 40 years old (pre-1968).  If the information from the brass plate inside the case would be useful, I could get that for you.  Thank you for your assistance!

Answer
To answer your inquirey fully would require that I virtualy write a book.  Instead I am going to give you, what I feel, good advice and Internet references for you to lookup and read.  
First I would most certainly have the clock serviced and ready to perform in your daughters home.  Ask whoever you have do the work, tell you how to prepair the clock for moving.  Grandfather clocks don't take too kindly to being moved and require considerable preperation for the move and subsequent set-up.
Now for the reference citation.  On the internet goto  <how to repairclocks.com/clock-repair/grandfather> This will help you care for the clock.
And about moving <home.earthlink.net/~atmosman/earthftp.html> This will tell you how to prepare a grandfather clock for moving.
I trust this will help you.  If you need more let me know.  Regards WJP