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Where to Get Your Grandfather Clock Professionally Serviced

Jason Matthiessen • February 25, 2025

A grandfather clock is more than just a timepiece—it is an heirloom, a symbol of tradition, and often a valuable investment. Proper maintenance and timely repairs are crucial to keeping these intricate mechanisms running smoothly for generations. Finding the right professional service for your grandfather clock can be challenging, but ensuring expert care will preserve its beauty, function, and longevity.

The Importance of Professional Grandfather Clock Service

Grandfather clocks are intricate mechanical devices that require specialized knowledge to maintain and repair. Unlike modern quartz clocks, these timepieces consist of delicate gears, pendulums, weights, and chimes that need precise adjustments. Here are some key reasons why professional service is essential:

1. Expertise in Complex Mechanisms

A professional clock technician understands the detailed inner workings of a grandfather clock. They have years of training in diagnosing and fixing mechanical issues, ensuring that your clock functions accurately.

2. Preserving Antique Value

If your grandfather clock is an antique or family heirloom, improper servicing could diminish its value. Professional servicing maintains its originality while ensuring smooth operation.

3. Preventing Further Damage

DIY repairs can lead to unintentional damage. A qualified clockmaker has the right tools and techniques to handle delicate components properly.

4. Regular Maintenance for Longevity

Like any mechanical device, a grandfather clock requires periodic maintenance. A professional service includes oiling, cleaning, and minor adjustments to prevent costly repairs in the future.

How to Find a Qualified Clock Technician

Finding the right clock technician for your grandfather clock repair requires research. Below are the key steps to ensure you hire a qualified expert.

1. Look for Certified Clockmakers

A reputable clock repair technician should have certifications from professional organizations such as:

  • The American Watchmakers-Clockmakers Institute (AWCI)
  • The National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors (NAWCC) These certifications indicate formal training and adherence to industry standards.

2. Check Reviews and Testimonials

Customer reviews provide insights into a technician's expertise and reliability. Look for businesses with positive feedback on platforms like Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau.

3. Ask for Recommendations

If you have friends or family who own grandfather clocks, ask them for recommendations. Antique dealers and jewelers may also have trusted referrals.

4. Evaluate Experience and Specialization

Some technicians specialize in specific brands or types of grandfather clocks. Ask about their experience with your clock's make and model.

5. Visit Their Shop

A well-organized, professional repair shop is a good indicator of a technician's skill and dedication. Some services even offer free estimates while you wait.

Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Clockmaker

Before entrusting your grandfather clock to a technician, ask the following questions to ensure you are making the right choice:

1. How Long Have You Been Repairing Grandfather Clocks?

Experience matters. A clockmaker with decades of experience is more likely to have encountered and resolved various clock issues.

2. What Services Do You Offer?

Look for a technician who provides:

  • Full cleanings and oiling
  • Gear and pendulum adjustments
  • Part replacements
  • Chime and strike adjustments
  • In-home service (for clocks that are difficult to transport)

3. Do You Provide a Warranty on Repairs?

A reputable clock repair service should offer a warranty on their work, ensuring that repairs are done properly and last for a reasonable period.

4. What Are the Estimated Costs?

While prices vary, a technician should be able to provide an upfront estimate before proceeding with repairs. Be wary of hidden fees.

5. How Long Will the Repair Take?

Depending on the complexity of the issue, some repairs take a few days, while others may require weeks. Get a clear timeline upfront.

What to Expect from a Professional Service

When you take your grandfather clock to a professional repair service, here's what you can typically expect:

1. Thorough Inspection and Diagnosis

A skilled technician will begin by thoroughly inspecting your clock to identify issues. They will check for:

  • Misaligned gears
  • Worn-out bushings
  • Dirt buildup affecting movement
  • Chime and strike malfunctions

2. Cleaning and Oiling

Clocks need to be regularly cleaned and oiled to prevent wear and tear. A professional service will:

  • Disassemble and clean key components
  • Apply high-quality clock oil to reduce friction
  • Ensure all moving parts are properly lubricated

3. Necessary Adjustments and Repairs

If any parts are misaligned or malfunctioning, the technician will adjust or replace them as needed. Common repairs include:

  • Fixing pendulum swings
  • Aligning clock hands and chimes
  • Replacing worn-out parts

4. Testing for Accuracy

After servicing, the technician will test the clock to ensure it keeps accurate time and functions smoothly. They will make final adjustments to improve performance.

5. Advice on Maintenance and Care

A reliable technician will offer maintenance tips to help you care for your clock, such as:

  • Keeping it level on a sturdy surface
  • Avoiding direct sunlight and extreme humidity
  • Winding it carefully at regular intervals

Trust Chicago Clock Company for Expert Grandfather Clock Repair

If you are looking for professional, reliable grandfather clock repair, Chicago Clock Company is your go-to expert. With years of experience servicing all types of clocks, we provide top-notch repair, maintenance, and sales services. Our skilled technicians offer free estimates while you wait, ensuring transparency and convenience.

Why Choose Chicago Clock Company?

  • Expert clock repair services, including in-home grandfather clock repair, for all major brands; we also accept repairs shipped to us from other states
  • Battery replacement and maintenance for various clock types
  • Certified technicians with extensive experience
  • Transparent pricing with free in-store estimates
  • Fast and reliable service to keep your timepiece running smoothly

Don't let your cherished grandfather clock fall into disrepair. Call us today to schedule an appointment. Let us help you keep your timepiece in perfect working order for generations to come!

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Grandfather clocks are not only stunning decorative pieces but also treasured family heirlooms with significant sentimental and monetary value. Their intricate mechanisms and towering structure make them both captivating and challenging to move. Whether relocating across the country or to another room, taking proper precautions is essential to safeguard your clock’s integrity. Why Moving a Grandfather Clock Requires Special Care Grandfather clocks are delicate instruments with complex inner workings. Mishandling can easily damage components like the pendulum, weights, or movement mechanisms. Additionally, their tall, narrow design makes them susceptible to tipping, which could cause irreparable damage or even injury. Unlike typical furniture, moving a grandfather clock involves dismantling key components and understanding its mechanics. Improper handling can compromise both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Tools and Supplies You'll Need To ensure a smooth and safe move, gather the following items: Gloves: Protect the clock’s finish and prevent oils from your hands from causing damage. Moving blankets or padding: Wrap the clock to avoid scratches and damage. Packing tape: Secure the padding or blankets. Zip ties or twist ties: Secure chains or cables. Screwdriver: Remove components like the pendulum or weights. Labels or markers: Label each part for easy reassembly. Sturdy box: Store small parts and fragile components, such as the pendulum. Step 1: Prepare the Clock for Moving Remove the Pendulum The pendulum is one of the most delicate parts. Carefully lift it from its hook and store it in a padded box. Avoid touching its surface to prevent tarnishing or imbalance. Secure the Weights Most grandfather clocks have three weights, each with a specific function. Remove them to prevent swinging during transit. Note their positions (left, center, right) and mark them. Wrap each weight in padding. Place them securely in a box. Protect the Chains or Cables Chains or cables connected to the weights can tangle or damage easily. Use zip ties or twist ties to secure them, preventing entanglement with other components. Remove the Glass Panels (If Applicable) If the clock has removable glass panels, carefully take them out. Wrap them in bubble wrap or moving blankets, secure with tape, and place in a box labeled "Fragile." Step 2: Wrap and Protect the Clock Body Wrap the clock’s body in moving blankets or padding. Secure the padding with packing tape, ensuring it doesn’t touch the clock’s surface. Pay special attention to corners and edges, as they are more vulnerable to damage. Step 3: Transporting the Clock Use Two or More People Grandfather clocks are heavy and awkward to handle alone. Enlist at least one other person to lift and move the clock safely. Keep the Clock Upright Always transport the clock upright. Laying it flat can shift internal mechanisms, leading to costly repairs. Use a dolly or furniture sliders to move the clock, and securely strap it in place during transport. Avoid Vibrations and Sudden Movements Grandfather clocks are sensitive to jolts and vibrations. Place it on a flat, stable surface during transport, avoid stacking items on top, and drive carefully, especially on rough roads. Step 4: Reassembling the Clock Position the Clock Place the clock in its new location on a stable, level surface. Use a leveling tool if necessary. Reattach the Pendulum Hook the pendulum back into place, ensuring it hangs freely without obstruction. Reinstall the Weights Match the weights to their original positions (left, center, right) and attach them to the chains or cables. Ensure they are securely in place. Test the Clock Start the pendulum gently to check the clock’s functionality. Listen for consistent ticking and verify the chimes work as expected. Common Mistakes to Avoid Skipping Component Removal: Always remove the pendulum, weights, and other parts before moving. Ignoring Weight Placement: Incorrectly placed weights can disrupt the clock’s operation. Failing to Secure the Clock During Transit: An unstrapped clock can tip or shift, causing serious damage. When to Call the Professionals If uncertain about any step or handling a valuable or antique clock, seek professional help. Experts have the tools and knowledge to move your clock safely. Chicago Clock Company offers professional clock moving services to ensure your timepiece is relocated safely. Protect Your Timepiece for Generations Moving a grandfather clock requires careful planning and attention to detail. By following this guide, you can protect your clock’s mechanisms and preserve its beauty for years. If you prefer expert assistance, Chicago Clock Company is here to help. From clock repair to professional moving services, we handle your treasured timepieces with care. Contact Us Today Don’t risk damaging your heirloom. Contact us for a free estimate and schedule an appointment. Let us help you keep time in style!
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