You Have Bought a Beautiful Chiming Wall Clock-Now What Do You Do?

     You have spent time and money choosing just the right chiming wall clock to fit your personality and your home décor.   You want to make sure it lasts for many years to come. So, how do you take care of your new purchase?

     The first thing you need to do, obviously, is get your treasure home.   Clocks should be moved in the vertical position whenever possible.   If that is not possible, as in the case of a large wall clock or a tall case clock, the next best position is on the clock’s back.   If you purchased a pendulum clock, be sure to remove the pendulum or lock it into place before moving the clock.   Weight driven clocks (Cuckoo Clocks, grandfather clocks) need to have the weights removed and the chains fastened to prevent them from tangling.   The clock’s door or bezel should be closed and all keys removed.   Also be sure to protect the glass and dial of your clock.  

     Once you have your clock home you will take it out of the carton.   Make sure you lift it from the bottom, especially if you purchased an antique clock, so the top does not come off it your hands.

     You got your clock home safely and out of the box.   Now you want to find the perfect place to show off your treasure.   First rule of thumb is to find a location that is out of traffic and protected from dust, moisture, too much heat or cold and direct sunlight.   Next, you want to pick a spot where the clock will add a beautiful accent.   Take into consideration the décor of the rest of the room.

     When you hang your clock on the wall, especially if you purchased a pendulum clock, remember it needs to be plumb so there is no contact between the pendulum and the backboard.   You also need to be sure any weights do not rub the backboard.

     Pendulum clocks will make an even tick-tock sound it they are running properly.   If you don’t hear that even sound, again make sure the clock is plumb.   If you still do not hear the even ticking, check the information from you manufacturer for the trouble shooting guide.

     When you are ready to set your chiming wall clock it is important to remember that the minute hand is designed to move forward without causing any damage to the movement but the hour hand is not.   The hour hand follows the minute hand in a normal fashion.   This obviously takes a little longer to set the clock, but it will prevent damage to the movement.   If you have purchased a striking clock you should also allow it to strike fully at each hour and half-hour before you move the minute hand any further.   For example, if the hands are on 5 o’clock let the clock strike or chime the full five times before moving on.   Never turn the hands of a striking clock backwards.

     You purchased your clock and you got it home safely.   You found the perfect spot and you hung it on your wall.   You have it set, now you can sit back and enjoy the soft ticking of your chiming clock and the melodious chimes as it strikes the hours.   Enjoy it for many years to come.