How to Wind a Seth Thomas Clock

Seth Thomas is the United States' oldest clockmaker and both their antique and modern clocks are in high demand. They are made from metal or wood, or a combination of both. Many of the older models are considered valuable antiques and collectors prize the antique Seth Thomas clocks because of their craftsmanship and melodious chimes. Whatever the reasons, Seth Thomas clocks still remain one of the most popular clocks on the market. And with a little knowledge, winding a Seth Thomas clock will not be a problem.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Clock keys

1. Locate the two original keys that came with your clock; they will be identical.
   
   Purchase two replacement keys from your local clock repair shop if you cannot find your original keys.
   
   Or, purchase several inexpensive clock keys from a local clock store or any number of online vendors. Test them to see what size fits your clock. The most common sizes are 3.5 mm and 3.75 mm, so test these first. Try the 3.25 mm, then the 4 mm next.

2. Insert one clock key into each keyhole. Gently turn each key to find out in which direction your clock winds. The keys will only turn in one direction and not at all in the other, and it should wind easily in the direction it is meant to turn. Some clocks wind clockwise, other models run counterclockwise, and still others require one key to turn clockwise and the other to turn counterclockwise.

3. Wind both clock keys. Stop at the first sign of resistance. This means that the clock is fully wound. Whether your clock needs to be rewound every six, seven or eight days, simply plan to regularly rewind your clock each week.

Tips & Warnings

• Never overwind a Seth Thomas clock. Winding beyond the first sign of resistance can result in damage.
• Be very careful when testing clock key sizes. Do not force a key into a keyhole.

References

• Clock Repair Web Resource

Resources

• Clock Key Size Chart
• Expert Restoration Work on Seth Thomas Clocks