Caring for antique clocks

Antique clocks and limited edition timepieces will keep for years to come, but only if taken care of in the appropriate manner. Since your investment in antique clocks will normally be more than for modern design timepieces, it will be worth your while to follow a sound cleaning policy, which differs from cleaning modern types.

Older timepieces and also the limited editions as available from us, have numerous mechanical parts which can rust if not properly taken care of. Just as you will take care of an expensive limited edition vehicle, you need to take precautions to prevent damage and pre-mature ageing of your antique clocks. Gears for instance, will become stiff if not winded regularly where applicable.

One aspect that the poses the most danger to the safety and working of the limited edition timepiece is that of positioning it. If a pendulum long case is not placed on a level surface and ensured that it will not rock forward and backwards, the moving parts of the timepiece may be damaged.

When moving a clock of sizeable proportion you should ensure that the clockwork doesn’t move forward and backwards. As such get enough help to carry the timepiece from one location to another while keeping it steady. Make sure that the persons carrying the clock don’t wear belts or jewellery that may scratch the valuable surface of the timepiece.

Wear gloves whenever you need to clean the item to prevent acid from your hands damaging the clock. Also ensure that only appropriate cloths are used to remove dust. The type normally used to clean eye glasses is appropriate. Lastly get insurance where appropriate. Visit our products page for an overview of the limited editions and antique clocks available at Holtzhausen.

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