The Right Way to Wind a Mechanical Clock

Key-wound clocks

Insert the key fully, turn smoothly, and stop when resistance becomes firm — never force a final quarter turn. Let the key return under control rather than releasing it. Wind on the same day each week so the mainspring works within its intended range.

Cable-driven floor clocks

Use the crank, turn steadily, and watch the weight rather than the crank. Stop when the weight is about two inches below the seat board. Winding until it stops hard can jam the pulley or damage the cable drum.

Chain-driven clocks

Pull the free end of the chain downwards to raise the weight. Never pull on the weight itself, and never lift the weight by hand, which lets the chain slip off its sprocket.

Habits that shorten a clock's life

Waiting until the clock stops before winding. Winding hard against the stop. Winding a clock that is making an unusual noise. Leaving a weight-driven clock fully run down for months at a time. Each of these is small on its own; together they account for a large share of the repairs we see.