Expert: Martin Meyer - 3/13/2009

Question
hi i brought a smiths mantel clock secound hand and the gong works when you move the hands around but the pengulam doesent move at all so its not working on its own and when you wind it with the key one side does not wind at all and the other only moves around a bit . does this mean its over wound? and why does the pengulam not work?

Answer
Hi Abbie,

There is really no such thing as "overwinding". If the key will not turn the winding shaft any farther, then the clock is simply fully wound. If it is not running, it will stay fully wound, so you might think the clock is "overwound".

There are many possible causes of a clock's failure to run, that is, the pendulum not moving. The most common are, the pendulum could be out of beat, the movement could need oiling or the bearings in the movement could be worn and the clock needs an overhaul; however, there are numerous other possibilities beyond the scope of this forum. Please browse my previous answers for information on the common causes.  http://www.clockmasteronline.com