How do I wind an eight day clock?

Eight day longcase clocks require winding once a week using a crank key inserted into winding holes on the brass dial face. Turning the key gently raises the internal weights back toward the top of the trunk. Care must be taken not to overwind the movement, stopping as soon as resistance is felt. Ensure the pendulum remains stationary before adjusting the hands.

What is the difference between a grandfather and grandmother clock?

Grandfather clocks are full-sized floor-standing timepieces developed primarily during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. They require adequate ceiling height and floor space. Grandmother clocks are scaled-down versions produced in the twentieth century. They feature shorter, narrower cases suited to smaller domestic rooms.

Where should I place a longcase clock?

Longcase clocks need a stable, dry interior wall away from direct sunlight, central heating vents and exterior doors. Fluctuating temperatures can affect the timber case and the expansion of internal metal parts. Position the piece on a solid floor surface and secure the trunk to the wall using the internal bracket if provided. A stable foundation ensures the pendulum swings evenly.

How do I date an antique clock?

Dating relies on examining the style of the brass dial, the formation of the cabinet timber, and the signature of the maker engraved on the face. Regional variations in spandrel design and case construction provide clear chronological clues. Many makers recorded their working dates in trade directories or historical registers. Comparing the movement and wood type against documented examples narrows the period of origin.