Expert: Kenneth Saunders - 12/13/2009

Question
QUESTION: I inherited a clock that came into the family on Sept. 12th 1874. It is from the Waterbury Clock Co. I know nothing about the clock other then it was given to me yesterday and currently is not running. The clock has not ran in years, but it did start last week (all by itself) and stopped when we were packaging it up to bring it to my home. It has a key and two holes to wind it up, but I have no idea how to do it. Also, the pendulum is not centered in the clock face. I have no idea how to get it running again. Any information you have would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

ANSWER: the pendulum is a problem to solve first- it is hanging such that it will not run--bent, broken or something --hands and dial need to be removed to determine what is amiss. You want to get involved or take it to a pro?

the key winds both sides tightly - the right one keep the clock ticking the left keeps it striking the hour, etc.

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QUESTION: I removed the hands and face of the clock. It revealed that the pendulum arm was bent. I straightened it out and tried to get to stay ticking, but it must be off balance still. Do you have any further suggestions? Thanks!!!!!

ANSWER: here on the left is the verge:
http://www.merritts.com/store4/public/product.aspx?ProductID=83869&SearchText=p1

the brass shaft of the verge is curled around the pendulum suspension rod that the pendulum is hooked onto

the section between the curled end foot and the top, is adjusted by bending (taking out some of the bend or adding some bend) till the sound of the clock ticking is equal on both sides- and the suspension wire hangs roughly in the middle of the curled loop at end foot

test with the dial and hands off till it sounds right and keeps running- a drop of some oil on the two ears of the verge top where the escape gear teeth hit can help also.

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QUESTION: Sounds easy enough... what kind of oil do you suggest I use on the verge? I would hate to use the wrong stuff and ruin this family heirloom. Thank you so very much for all of your assistance. I will most certainly be taking notes of our conversation to keep with the clock for the future inheritors.

Answer
if you are just using it on those two points- anything will do--- from - 3-in-one oil to motor oil or
baby oil-- maybe olive oil!  in order of preference

3. Oil Recommendations:

Pivots:
3-in-1 light machine oil:
Doesn't evaporate; Right viscosity for clocks; Readily available; Cheap.
3-in-1:

Reported to be very effective.
Mobil 1, or any automotive synthetic, using the lightest multi-grade available.