Clock Repair & Full Service

At Nick of Time, a full service restores your clock to reliable, long-term operation while respecting its original construction. Every clock is carefully assessed, disassembled, cleaned, inspected, and reassembled by skilled hands. Our goal is to ensure smooth operation and accurate timekeeping, while preserving the integrity of both the movement and the case.

All parts are handled with care, tracked throughout the service, and returned to their original locations to maintain your clock’s authenticity.

What’s Included in a Full Service

A full service covers the routine materials and work needed to return your clock to reliable operation. Included items may include, but are not limited to:

  • Cleaning, inspection, and lubrication of the movement

  • Bushing work to restore worn pivots

  • Minor adjustments or straightening of levers and wire components

  • Simple push rods fabricated from wire (common in cuckoo clocks)

  • Small screws, nuts, taper pins, and other standard fasteners

  • Assembly, regulation, and test running before return

What’s Not Included in a Full Service

Certain parts or repairs fall outside the scope of a full service and will require separate discussion or quotation. These include, but are not limited to:

  • Mainsprings or wheels with broken or missing teeth

  • Pivot replacement (beyond bushing work)

  • Missing or severely damaged movement parts such as levers, cams, or wheels

  • Pendulum components including suspension springs, leaders, or rating assemblies

  • Case components, such as finials, glass panels, structural elements, or cosmetic restoration

  • Dials, hands, or moon dials

  • Chime rods, gongs, or hammers

  • Previous improper repairs that require part fabrication or replacement

What We Do During a Full Service

A full service is more than cleaning; it’s a careful process to ensure your clock runs smoothly and reliably for years to come. Our work is performed in phases, each focused on a key aspect of the movement’s function:

  1. Assessment & Documentation
    We start by thoroughly examining your clock, noting wear, missing parts, or irregularities. Photos and notes help us track each component and plan any necessary repairs.

  2. Disassembly & Cleaning
    The movement is carefully disassembled, and every part is cleaned to remove old oil, dirt, and metal particles. This step restores surfaces for smooth operation and helps us inspect for wear.

  3. Inspection & Wear Correction
    Each component is examined for signs of wear or damage. Worn bushings are replaced, and minor adjustments are made to levers, wires, and other standard components to restore proper function.

  4. Reassembly & Lubrication
    All parts are reassembled with care, using only the finest synthetic clock oils applied discreetly to reduce friction and protect your movement.

  5. Testing, Regulation & Setup
    The clock is test-run for several days to ensure reliable operation. We regulate timekeeping, set the beat, and check strikes or chimes. For tall case clocks, we return the movement to its case and ensure everything is properly installed and functioning before we leave.

Parts, Repairs, and Approvals

Some clocks may require parts or repairs beyond a standard full service. Whenever this is the case, we will:

  • Identify the parts or work required

  • Provide a clear quote before proceeding

  • Only perform additional work with your approval

Examples of items that typically require separate discussion or quotation include:

  • Mainsprings, broken wheels, or missing movement parts

  • Pivots needing replacement beyond bushing work

  • Pendulum leaders, suspension springs, or rating assemblies

  • Chime rods, gongs, or hammers

  • Dials, hands, or moon dials

  • Repairs needed due to prior improper service

Case Work and Cosmetic Repairs

While our full service focuses on the movement, optional case and cosmetic repairs are available. These services are quoted separately and performed only with your consent. Examples include:

  • Repairing or restoring broken case pieces, finials, or veneers

  • Replacing or repairing glass panels

  • Cosmetic refinishing, polishing, or shellac touch-ups

  • Hide-glue repairs to preserve original structure

After Service & Setup

Once your clock has completed its full service:

  • Tall case and grandfather clock movements are returned to their cases at no extra charge.

  • We carefully set up and level the clock, ensuring proper operation of the movement, chimes, and strike mechanisms.

  • Each clock is observed for a full run period before return, so you receive a reliable, fully functioning timepiece.

  • Any follow-up adjustments or questions are welcome; we want you to enjoy your clock without concern.