Grandfather clocks are damaged in moves more than anywhere else, almost always because the weights or pendulum were left in place. Take those out, secure the chimes and cables, move the case upright and give it a careful setup at the new address.
Before the move
- Stop the pendulum and lift it off its hanger, holding the rod near the top. Wrap it flat in a blanket.
- Take off the weights one at a time, from the bottom of their pulleys, and label them Left, Center and Right. They are often different weights.
- Secure the cables (cable-driven clocks): keep slight tension and roll newspaper or foam into the drum area, or tape the cables so they can't unwind and tangle. On chain clocks, tie the chains together.
- Secure the chimes: wrap rods with foam, or remove tubular chimes and pack them separately.
- Remove loose parts: finials, keys, the crank and any loose glass shelf.
Moving the case
Keep the clock upright. If it must be laid down for transport, lay it on its back on a padded surface, never on its face or side. Movers often remove the movement from very old or tall clocks; a clockmaker can do that before the move and reinstall it after.
Setting up at the new home
- Stand the case on a solid floor and level it with the feet.
- Rehang weights on the right hooks and the pendulum on its suspension spring and crutch.
- Set the beat, then the time, letting the chimes finish each quarter.
- Check the clock over the next few days; a little regulation is normal after a move.
Many clockmakers offer this service. In the directory, listings show it when the business says on its own site that it moves or sets up clocks.
Questions
Can I move a grandfather clock with the weights on?
No. The weights can swing and break the glass, the case or the movement mounting. Always remove them.
Do I need a clockmaker to move a grandfather clock?
Not always, but having one prepare and set up the clock is the safest way, especially for antique clocks.