How to Wind an Antique Clock

Clocks are works of art as well as timepieces. They require care and maintenance in order to function at peak performance. Well-maintained clocks can give families years of pleasure. Winding a clock is crucial to the care of any clock. Read on to learn how to wind an antique clock.

Things You'll Need

• Antique clock
• Key
• Patience

Instructions

1. Select a day and time to wind the antique clock. Consistency is crucial to the clock's maintenance.

2. Protect the key to wind the clock. Replacements are available, but at a cost of time and money.

3. Examine the clock to find the latch. Open the front or back to wind.

4. Determine which hole is for the wind and which is for the strike of the antique clock.

5. Insert the key into the wind hole of the clock and turn gently. A steady turn is required.

6. Feel the tension of the spring as the key is turned. It is important to develop this feel for the tension of the wind spring in the clock.

7. Perform the winding of the antique clock with respect to its age. It is not good to stop winding a clock abruptly. The more gentle the wind, the longer the life of the wind mechanisms.

Tips & Warnings

• Most clocks have an eight-day cycle.

• It is not good for the clock to stop winding it abruptly.

• Be careful not to over-wind your antique clock.