Expert: William J Perkins - 7/27/2008

Question
QUESTION: I have a 31 day Waltham Chime Wall Clock that is a about 40 years old. It belonged to my mother and there is no booklet available. Also, there is no model No. on the clock anywhere. It runs fine but very fast. I know this isn't much information but how do you typically adjust these clocks to slow them down? Thanks for your help.

Jerry

ANSWER: I believe your clock is in need of cleaning.  If the clock were in proper running order you would adjust its speed by raising or lowering the pendulum bob.  Raise to increase speed, lower to decrease.  In this instance I believe there is more wrong than could be solved by a simple pendulum adjustment.  Regards WJP

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for the information. The clock was cleaned about 9 months ago. I'll try adjusting the pendulum. Thanks again.

Jerry

Answer
Although the clock had been cleaned 9 months ago and if the clock was allowed to not run for a week or to it is quite possible the lubricant has coagulated and needs to be flushed out.  Whether or not this need be done is very dependent upon the lubricant used, and how it was applied.  If regulating by pendulum does not do the trick I would seriously consider having the movement cleaned again.  Regards WJP