Expert: William J Perkins - 6/23/2008

Question
Hi,
I have a cuckoo clock that chimes on the half-hour and plays music on the hour.  I have had the clock hanging on the wall in my kitchen for over 3 years now.  All of a sudden it has stopped suddenly.  When I go to reset it and wind the cones, it swings for a minute or two then stops again.  I've never had any problems with it in the past and it has not been off of the wall to cause trouble.  I miss hearing my cuckoo's music--can you help me?

Answer
After 3 years hanging in a kitchen environment I suspect your little friend is in dire need of a good bath and a rub-down, (cleaning and adjustment).  With all its openings a cuckoo is more susceptible to environmental changes than other types.  Other than the bathroom and laundry there isn't a harsher environment in a house.  If there are no clock repair listings in your telephone directory, give a local jeweler a call, they could refer you to a proper provider.  Regards WJP