Expert: Michael Radi - 9/12/2010

Question
Hello Michael,
I bought this clock at an antiques show last week for only $5. Was hoping it would run, which it does, but the pendulum makes an annoyingly loud noise. There is a cutout bottom under the clock. Should I put some sort of insulating material under it to help muffle the noise? It says "tempus fugit" on the clock and it is from the 1970's in almost-perfect condition. Thank you so much! Carol

Answer
Based on my experience with these clocks and your description, I'm guessing that the motor is the cause of the noise. The clock case amplifies the sound. The question is: Do you want to work on curing the cause of the sound or muffle the symptoms? Electric motors become worn and can sometimes be quieted with lubrication. It also could be the apparatus the moves the pendulum. This could be treated with grease.
If you don't want to go inside the clock and try to cure it, any dampening material added to the clock case might quiet it down but the sound will still be there to some degree.