Resource Center
Grandfather Clock Moving Guide
More grandfather clocks are damaged during moves than during decades of running, and almost all of that damage is preventable. A practical guide from the clock specialists at Wyattviano Co. in Glendale, Arizona.
- Experienced Clock Technicians
- Antique Clock Specialists
- Precision Repairs
- Honest Pricing
- Quality Craftsmanship
Why This Guide Matters
More grandfather clocks are damaged during moves than during decades of running, and almost all of that damage is preventable. This guide sets out what we have learned about moving a grandfather clock across thousands of repairs on the bench at 5720 W Frier Dr in Glendale, Arizona, written for owners rather than for technicians.
Everything below is practical. Where a task is safe for an owner, we say so and explain how. Where a task belongs on a professional bench, we say that too, because the fastest way to turn a small repair into an expensive one is enthusiastic improvisation.
If you have questions as you read, call (623) 847-5184. Phone advice is free, and a five-minute conversation often saves a service call.
Key Points at a Glance
- Remove weights first, labelled by position
- Remove the pendulum and wrap it
- Secure the chimes and hammers
- Never lay the case on its back
- Transport the hood separately if removable
- Have the clock re-levelled and set up on arrival
Before You Touch Anything
Photograph the clock from the front, inside the case and behind the dial so reassembly is unambiguous. Note which weight hangs left, centre and right, because they are usually different masses.
In practice, most owners in Glendale and across the West Valley encounter this within the first few years of owning a mechanical clock, and it is far more common than genuine mechanical failure.
Removing the Weights
Wind the clock fully so the weights are at the top, then lift each one off its pulley or hook and label it immediately. Weights are heavy and dense, and a dropped weight damages both the case and the floor.
If you are unsure at any point, stop and call us. Diagnosing moving a grandfather clock over the phone costs nothing, and we would rather talk you through it than repair the consequences.
Removing the Pendulum
Lift the pendulum slightly to disengage it from the suspension and withdraw it carefully through the case door. The suspension spring is the most fragile part of the entire clock and must be protected or immobilised.
This is also one of the areas where a documented professional service pays for itself, because a technician sees the pattern immediately.
Protecting Chime Rods and Hammers
Pack soft foam or bubble wrap between the chime rods and between the hammers and rods. Rods that vibrate freely during transport bend and lose their tuning.
Owners who understand this one point tend to keep their clocks running for decades without incident.
Need Expert Help With Your Clock?
Wyattviano Co. provides moving a grandfather clock guidance, repair and restoration throughout Glendale and the West Valley. Free estimates, honest pricing.
Moving the Case
Keep the case upright at all times, use two people and moving straps, and pad the corners. Laying a longcase clock flat stresses joints that were never designed to carry that load.
In practice, most owners in Glendale and across the West Valley encounter this within the first few years of owning a mechanical clock, and it is far more common than genuine mechanical failure.
Cables and Chains in Transit
Secure cables to their drums or tie chains together so they cannot unwind and tangle inside the case. A tangled cable is a genuinely awkward repair.
If you are unsure at any point, stop and call us. Diagnosing moving a grandfather clock over the phone costs nothing, and we would rather talk you through it than repair the consequences.
Reassembly at the New Home
Level the case in both directions, refit the pendulum and weights in their original positions, then set the clock in beat. Expect to need a small regulation adjustment as the clock settles into its new environment.
This is also one of the areas where a documented professional service pays for itself, because a technician sees the pattern immediately.
When to Call a Professional
If the clock is antique, tall, heavy or valuable, have it professionally prepared and reinstalled. Our house call service covers Glendale, Phoenix, Peoria, Surprise, Sun City, El Mirage, Tolleson, Avondale, Goodyear and Litchfield Park.
Owners who understand this one point tend to keep their clocks running for decades without incident.
Working With Wyattviano Co.
We are a specialist clock repair and restoration workshop in Glendale, Arizona, serving Glendale, Phoenix, Peoria, Surprise, Sun City, El Mirage, Tolleson, Avondale, Goodyear and Litchfield Park and the surrounding Maricopa County communities. Our work covers antique, grandfather, wall, mantel, cuckoo and mechanical clocks, along with full restoration and house call service.
Every clock receives a free estimate, a documented record of the work performed and a minimum fourteen-day test run before it goes home. Original parts are always returned to you.
To discuss moving a grandfather clock or any other clock question, call (623) 847-5184, email info@wyattvianoco.site, or use the request form below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Before You Touch Anything?
Photograph the clock from the front, inside the case and behind the dial so reassembly is unambiguous. Note which weight hangs left, centre and right, because they are usually different masses.
Removing the Weights?
Wind the clock fully so the weights are at the top, then lift each one off its pulley or hook and label it immediately. Weights are heavy and dense, and a dropped weight damages both the case and the floor.
Removing the Pendulum?
Lift the pendulum slightly to disengage it from the suspension and withdraw it carefully through the case door. The suspension spring is the most fragile part of the entire clock and must be protected or immobilised.
Protecting Chime Rods and Hammers?
Pack soft foam or bubble wrap between the chime rods and between the hammers and rods. Rods that vibrate freely during transport bend and lose their tuning.
Moving the Case?
Keep the case upright at all times, use two people and moving straps, and pad the corners. Laying a longcase clock flat stresses joints that were never designed to carry that load.
Can Wyattviano Co. help with moving a grandfather clock in Glendale, AZ?
Yes. We provide advice, repair, restoration and maintenance relating to moving a grandfather clock across Glendale and the wider West Valley, with free estimates and house calls where appropriate. Call (623) 847-5184.
How often should a mechanical clock be professionally serviced?
Every five to seven years for a full clean and oil, with the shorter interval preferred in Arizona's dry heat, plus routine owner maintenance in between.
Request Service or a Free Estimate
Tell us about your clock and we will respond with honest guidance and a written estimate. Prefer to talk it through? Call (623) 847-5184.