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Clocks, Watches/Wuersch mantle clock stopped

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Expert: Martin Meyer - 11/15/2008


Question
Our 30+ year old Wuersch mantle clock stopped.  We think it was over wound.  How can we get it going again?

Answer
Hi Michael,

Overwinding is probably the most common misconception about clocks. There is really no such thing as overwinding, other than winding so hard that one breaks the mainspring, an event that you can't miss due to the loud sound and vibration that it makes. What is really happening is that the clock is fully wound and remains so because it is not running.

When a clock is fully wound and will not run, it can be due to many, many causes, and I can't begin to cover them all in this forum. You might want to browse my previous answers on setting the pendulum beat, lubrication, bearing wear and other stopping issues.  http://www.clockmasteronline.com

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Martin Meyer

Expertise

Can answer repair and service questions for most types of clocks, antique and modern, mechanical and battery. NO watches, appraisals, identification, history, dating, or questions about cuckoo clocks. Website for Modern and Antique Clock Repair: Clockmasteronline.com

Experience

24 Years as owner and repairman of clock repair business, 28 years in the field. Factory Independent Service Center for Howard Miller, Ridgeway and (formerly) Sligh Clocks. Specializing in Fine Antique Longcase (grandfather) clocks. Clock repair Website: (Please remove "Not" from the address - this is a spam protection): www.NotClockmasteronline.com

Organizations
AWCI (American Watchmakers and Clockmakers Institute) and NAWCC (National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors)

Publications
Am also an Expert in the "AllExperts-Antiques-Antique Clocks" Category.

Education/Credentials
Trained by a former Rolex Asia watchmaker, and by a Master Watchmaker/Clockmaker.

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