Restoring Grandfather Clocks

The grandfather clock, an entirely new kind of furniture, first appeared in the late seventeenth century. From then on, with its long case to protect pendulum and weights, its rugged movement and large, clear indication of time, it has been a success story right up to the present day. Virtually none of these clocks is beyond repair and often the work required is within the scope of inexperienced owners. This is the first full-length book to cover repair and restoration of these attractive and often valuable antiques, including their casework. The first part outlines how to clean and service the clock ‘works’ and also how to refurbish the dial, while in the second part restoration or casework, both structural repairs and finishing, is considered. The illustrations are of two actual clocks (one eight-day and one thirty-hour) and work proceeding on them. The last part of the book sketches common variations from these particular examples. Armed with this book and appropriate tools (for work on both movement and case), the owner of a dilapidated grandfather clock will be encouraged and given the know-how to restore it to life as a useful and attractive clock and a prized possession.

Author Biography

Eric Smith had an interest in clocks from his teenage years and, in retirement, ran a small clock repair and restoration business. He was the author of many books including six on clocks. He was also a regular contributor to various horological magazines. Eric Smith died in 2006. Brian Smith, the son of Eric Smith, shares his father’s interest in repairing and restoring clocks and ran his own antique furniture restoration business for five years. He now lives in France. Brian Smith, the son of Eric Smith, shares his father’s interest in repairing and restoring clocks and ran his own antique furniture restoration business for five years. He now lives in France.