Expert: Harold Williamson - 9/19/2009

Question
My dad just gave me a Waltham Tempus Fugit Grandfather clock. Some else owned it & he just got it but they wound the clock too tight with the key & it won't work. Help!
                Terry

Answer
Hello Terry,

You really cant wind a clock too tight.  Usually the clock stops for some other reason and the first thing someone does is wind the clock and it still wont run.

A few questions for you

Is the pendulum hanging correctly on the leader ?

Does the clock tick at all when you swing the pend?  If so is it an even tick  tock?  Assuming it has been moved is it level?  Take the pend. to the far left or right and just let go and see if this puts it back in an even beat.  Try this several times and listen for a change in the sound of the tick if necessary.  Careful if the clock has glass sides.

Has it been serviced in the last 8-10 years by a clock smith

By the way don't spray a lube on the movement.

Are the hands touching each other or the numbers on the dial?

You are welcome to give me a call if needed..  919-304-7651

Tempus Fugit is Latin for Time Flies

The movement is German made.