Clock Cleaning

We offer you far more than just a basic clock cleaning service

The delicate mechanisms which make up a mechanical clock are designed to mesh together perfectly, with a strict configuration and tiny tolerances of movement for each component. A clean, well maintained clockwork mechanism, wound tight and functioning perfectly, can yield a special kind of satisfaction to those who appreciate mechanical systems. On the other hand, the slightest particle of dirt, dust or debris can have an impact on the running of the whole mechanism. Once a foreign body has penetrated the device, the result can be anything from a slight inaccuracy in timekeeping, to a situation resulting in permanent damage to the clock’s vital components.

While it is possible for those with some knowledge of delicate mechanical systems to perform their own cleaning clock experts recommend contacting a professional clock cleaner. The way vintage clock movements are assembled means they have many tiny gaps and spaces within the workings where dust, hair and other contaminants can become trapped. Trying to remove these foreign bodies with tools like tweezers and cotton buds can drive them further into the gearing, causing it to jam. On the other hand, any amateur who decides to take their clock apart for cleaning will soon realise why dealers and collectors have their clock cleaning done by professionals. With such complexity on a tiny scale, don’t be caught in the situation of having taken your beautiful timepiece apart without knowing how to put it back together again.

Clock Cleaning Solution

When you come to Tic Toc Clock Repairs for antique clock cleaning, we can offer you far more than just a basic clock cleaning service. Besides a thorough clean using specialist clock movement cleaner fluid and precision tools, we can also inspect your treasured timepiece and notify you if any further action is needed to keep it in top condition. If you decide to proceed, we can perform a full service and any repairs which are found to be necessary.

Some tips for cleaning your clock if you chose not to have it serviced by a professional;

Oil – using oil to lubricate your clock is vital, having your clock regularly serviced will come with clock oiling, without clock oil your timepiece will begin to cause friction on the inside clock parts, this will result in damaged parts and result in a further need for repair.

If you’re unsure on what clock oil you will need get in touch with your local horology expert, they will be able to advise on oil which can be bought online or in your local store.

Cleaning fluid– it’s important that you won’t be damaging the clock during cleaning, if you have a brass clock – polishing may be suggested rather than a cleaning solution. Cleaning products are typically harsher chemicals and whilst they may clean the clock of bacteria & in some cases rust, it’s likely they will cause a permanent damage to the old clock.

When it comes to cleaning the integral parts of your antique clock such as the pendulum, dial, hour hand & minute hand, plate, mainspring & clock case – each needs to be handled with care, they can’t be placed in water with chemicals together. You’ll need to individually take each peace and wash down with a wet/ warm cloth. If you’d like some advice on solvent and cleaner for a specific clock please get in touch – we’d be happy to offer free advice for any mechanical clock issues.