How Antique Clock Restoration Works (And Why It’s Worth Doing Properly)
Restoring an antique clock is a delicate, skilled process that brings a piece of history back to life. Whether it’s an 18th-century longcase clock or a family heirloom mantel clock, proper restoration preserves the craftsmanship, accuracy and character of the original maker.
Many people aren’t sure what actually happens during a restoration — or whether their clock is even repairable. Here’s a simple guide to how antique clock restoration works, what a specialist does, and why cutting corners can do more harm than good.
What Does ‘Restoration’ Mean for an Antique Clock?
Antique clock restoration isn’t just “fixing a part that’s broken.” It’s about:
Maintaining the clock’s original design
Improving accuracy and reliability
Preventing further wear or damage
Preserving historical value
A proper restoration respects the clock’s age, materials and craftsmanship.
A quick fix, or untrained DIY attempt, may get the clock ticking, but it can also damage components that are extremely difficult (or impossible) to replace.
Step 1: Assessment and Diagnosis
A specialist begins by gently inspecting the clock to understand:
Its age and maker
The condition of the movement
Any missing or worn parts
Whether the clock has been repaired before (and how well)
What level of restoration is appropriate
This helps determine whether the clock needs a simple service, a full overhaul, or specialist work such as bushing, repivoting or replacing damaged wheels.
Step 2: Dismantling the Movement
Almost all antique clock restorations involve complete dismantling of the movement.
This means separating:
Plates
Wheels
Arbors
Springs
Pins
Levers
Striking mechanism
Each component is inspected individually so nothing is missed.
This is the stage where shortcuts are most dangerous. Oiling a dirty or partially dismantled movement may make the clock run temporarily, but only accelerates wear.
Step 3: Cleaning
Old oil breaks down over time and turns into a gritty paste that increases wear.
Cleaning involves:
Degreasing historical oils
Ultrasonic cleaning (where appropriate)
Hand-cleaning sensitive parts
Drying and preparing components for reassembly
Cleaning alone doesn’t “fix” a clock, but it exposes issues that remain hidden when the movement is dirty.
Step 4: Repairing Worn or Damaged Parts
Common repairs during restoration include:
Installing new bushes to fix worn pivot holes
Repivoting worn arbors
Straightening bent wheels or levers
Replacing worn springs
Repairing striking mechanisms
Refitting loose or incorrect components from past repairs
These jobs require precise tools and specialist skill.
Poor repairs are one of the biggest reasons antique clocks lose value, especially when parts have been replaced unnecessarily.
Step 5: Reassembly and Lubrication
When everything is clean and repaired, the movement is carefully reassembled:
Wheels are positioned
Pinions are checked
Pivots are polished
Correct oils are applied sparingly
Too much oil is just as harmful as none. Antique movements only need oil on specific contact points – modern oils used incorrectly can damage brass components.
Step 6: Testing, Regulation and Fine Adjustment
Once running again, the clock is tested for:
Accuracy
Reliability
Strike alignment
Beat setting
Power reserve
Consistency over several days
Longcase, bracket and wall clocks each have their quirks, and proper regulation can take time.
A well-restored clock should run reliably for many years with only routine servicing.
Is Your Antique Clock Worth Restoring?
Many antique clocks, even those that seem worn or neglected, are repairable. If you’re unsure, feel free to send me a photo or bring the clock in for a straightforward assessment.
You might be surprised at how much life is still in it.
