Anniversary Clock Adjustment

There will be times when you will have to make an anniversary clock adjustment. These timepieces usually need to be set up once a year only. But if you have an old model, it may require an occasional wounding to keep the time accurate.

Step 1

If the clock runs on batteries, replace the batteries with new ones.
If it is an old style model, wind it up. Set it to the proper time. Observe the clock. If it does not run properly, proceed to step two.

Step 2

To start making anniversary clock adjustments, take off the plastic or glass. This is the dome that is atop the unit. Carefully hold the pendulum so it stops.

Step 3

If the clock is too fast, do the following. Take hold of the base of the pendulum. Rotate it a bit. Turn it about a sixteenth of an inch to the point where it states “retard” or “slow”. Some models will have an R or S sign instead. By orienting the pendulum to this sign, the time will slow down.

Step 4

If the clock is too fast, hold the pendulum and set it at the “advance” or “fast” sign. Your clock may have an F or A mark instead. Again, make sure that you only rotate it about 1/16 of an inch.

Step 5

Put the dome back in place. Observe the clock and check if the time is running. If the clock is not running in time, repeat the adjustments again. Make sure that you only adjust in small amounts. Making large adjustments may cause damage to the clock.

When the Clock Needs Repair

If the clock stops running, the clock’s spring may be damaged. If the spring is bent, you will need to have it replaced. If you are getting a replacement, it has to be of the exact same size. Springs that are too thin or thick will result in the balls not moving properly.

To replace the spring, use a screwdriver. Remove the old blocks and fork and install the new ones. Hook up the fork to the new spring. Put the spring back in place. Follow the clock user guide to restart the clock. The time should now be precise.

Making these anniversary clock adjustments is easy. The only thing you have to keep in mind is to make small modifications only. This will help you gauge the time movement accurately.