WESTMINSTER CHIMES CLOCK

Generally, but not in every case, this type of chime and strike system can be recognized from observing three winding holes in the clock dial [or sometimes on the back plate]. Convention has dictated that in most, but not all, clocks of this type the holes are designated as follows:

Centre Time only [Going Side]
Left Hour Strike only
Right Quarter Hour Chimes only

The gearing of each of the three trains of wheels has been calculated to allow that each will unwind the appropriate mainspring at approximately the same rate as its partners. Usually a full wind will run a serviced clock for about eight days. All three springs should be fully wound at the same time.

The hands should be advanced to the correct setting one quarter of an hour at a time, allowing the clock to chime and strike as it will. In order to ensure that the hour hand has not been moved accidentally observe the relative position of both hands at an hour setting. Should the hour hand not point at the appropriate number it may be moved GENTLY to the correct position.

NEVER TURN THE MINUTE HAND ANTICLOCKWISE.

These clocks are usually constructed so that the mechanism is always set in such a position that the clock will chime and strike the correct pattern and number of hours as shown by the hands. This system is known as the 'self-correcting' system. Should the sequence appear to have been disturbed the owner need not at once be concerned. This can happen when the clock is run down and the new time is set following winding. It may be observed for example that the clock will strike the correct hours on the first setting but an incorrect quarter chime pattern. The mechanism will correct itself automatically at the next hour or at the following hour and in the interim period may not chime at all at some quarters. This is perfectly all right and adjustment is not necessary.

Should there be errors after the second hour your clock will need attention from your horologist.