Question QUESTION: New clock. I have to wind it every 5 days. It seems the weights come down too fast. What could cause this.
ANSWER: There are a number of possibilities. 1) You are not raising the weights high enough. You should raise the weights to a position where the weight top is about 3" from hitting the seat board, i.e. the board the movement sits upon. 2) The clock is running extremely fast, in which case you must slow it down> This correction is made by dropping the pendulum bob down by turning the nut at the very bottom of the pendulum staff so as to drop the bob down thus slowing the clock down. I suspect the first thought is the correct one. In any case since this is a new clock with a problem you should contact the store you purchased it from for adjustment. They have an obligation to set your clock up properly and to also instruct you as to how you should operate it. Obviously they failed to do this. Most firms are anxious to please their customers and will gladly correct any oversight on their part. I hope this helps you. As a later resort, if the matter is not resolved, contact Howard Miller setting forth the facts. Regards WJP
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QUESTION: Thanks, but the clock keeps perfect time and I did call where I bought it and was told because it is on a rug I might have to "wire it to the wall" or put a phone book in front of it, because it is moving on the carpet. There is no way I will wire to wall. The man that delivered it did level it. I have a phone book in front of it right now, but don't want to keep it there. I wound it yesterday and will check to see how many days it takes before it stops. What do you think???
Answer I think you are doing all the right things. My compliments. Years ago one of my neighbors had a similar problem, i.e., the clock could not remain stable because of deep pile carpeting. I suggested that he put a solid platform on the carpet upon which to stand his clock. He went to the local monument factory and had them cut and polish a suitably sized red granite base. It looked quite attractive then and still does. That was over 50 years ago. During that time the clock has performed beautifully. The carpet has been changed once for decorative purposes. I make the same suggestion to you. Have a platform of some kind made up, out of whatever materials you find attractive. I am glad you nixed wiring the clock to the wall, THAT IS NONSENSE and could prove very harmful for your clock, particularly in an earthquake. Let me know how this works out. I am interested and could possibly be of a real help. Regards WJP
