Clocks

Although now in semi retirement and no longer a part of Robin Martin & Partners, Robin is still available by phone to offer his expert advice and assistance with your clock enquiries. As a member of the British Horological Institute he has been repairing clocks since the 1960’s and restores all types of mechanical antique clocks, and modern clocks at competitive prices.

For all clock enquiries, please contact Robin directly on 07939 272099 to discuss your repair or e-mail him at clock_robbie02@yahoo.co.uk

Mechanical clock repairs

As part of the service the clock movement is fully dismantled, worn parts repaired/replaced where necessary and ultrasonically cleaned before being re assembled, lubricated, regulated and tested. Any case work/restoration from a light polish to full lacquering is carried out where agreed, ready to house the movement once serviced.

It is important to remember the timekeeping ability of a mechanical clock can be affected by temperature, humidity, vibrations and even its position. So, if your clock isn’t functioning as it should, here are a few common faults to look for, which often arise after clocks run down or are moved.

1. Check that all key holes have been fully wound in the clock and that it has an even steady tick as all mantle and wall clocks need to be resting on a level surface, so if it’s not pack it out accordingly to make it so.
2. With pendulum clocks make sure you gently set the pendulum in motion if its run down and wait 30 seconds checking for an even tick.
3. Desynchronization: When the time on the clock shown is different to the number of chimes. e.g. Clock shows 2 o’clock but chimes to indicate 5 o’clock. This is a common fault in chiming clocks when they run down, and although most of the modern clocks will correct desynchronization on their own within a few hours, for older clocks it’s a different story.