Clock Cleaning

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.