AUG. SCHATZ & SOHNE 53 little anniversary clock from thrift store (2024)

FAQs

How to adjust a Schatz anniversary clock? ›

On Kundo and Schatz clocks, turning the regulating disc clockwise slows down the clock; and turning it counterclockwise speeds up the clock. Some brands of 400 day clock regulate in the opposite direction. The clock usually has labels to tell you which way to turn the disc.

Timing Adjustments

Timekeeping is carried out on these clocks by moving the balls or pendulum weights in or out. As weights are moved outwards, the clock will slow down. As the weights are moved inwards, the clock will speed up. On clocks with balls there will be a serrated adjusting disk just above the balls.

The spring being bent is the number one cause for most of these clocks not working. I would venture to guess that this is the reason for about 80% of these clocks that need repair. They are cheap to replace and it is an easy fix if your the patient type.

Luckily, the truth is that you can't over-wind your clock. Over-winding is basically a myth! Let's take a look at what actually causes a clock to quit running or chiming after winding it up…

To wind fully, give the spring 3 to 4 further turns with the key. Please turn anti-clockwise. Do not force the spring, wind only until you find that the key will not readily turn further. when fully wound, your Schatz clock requires no further winding for 400 days.

First make sure the clock is level both ways front to back and side to side. If your pendulum after starting it swinging and stops after a few minutes it might be out of beat or a pendulum clock will stop when it has been moved, bumped or even a too aggressive push to restart a pendulum.

Improvised Key: Look around your home for a small, cylindrical object that can act as a makeshift key. Items like a pen cap, a small screwdriver, or even a paperclip can be used to wind the clock. Choose a tool that fits snugly into the winding arbor and gently turn it in the clockwise direction to wind the clock.

The “anniversary clock” is called that because it'll run for about 400 days on one winding, so you can wind the thing on your wedding anniversary, perhaps making a celebration of the ritual.

The pendulum of this clock is locked and unlocked by a lever which is located in front, or in back, of the clock at the bottom of the base. When the lever is moved to an extreme right position, the pendulum is raised and locked; when it is moved to the extreme left position, the pendulum is lowered and is "free".

French "retarder" meaning to delay or hold back. "Avancer" to bring or move forward. Usually indicated on pendulums as "R A" and on watch regulators as "R A" or "Retard" "Avance".

How do you adjust the time on an old pendulum clock? ›

If the clock is running fast, move the bob down or turn the nut to the left. If the clock is running slow, move the bob up or turn the nut to the right. Restart the pendulum and reset the clock hands to the proper time. It is easy to remember: lower is slower and left is lower.

Strike Synchronization using hands:

Move the minute hand clockwise until it passes the number 12 and the clock strikes. Count the number of times the clock strikes, then move the hour hand to the number the clock just struck.

Either on the back plate of the clock or on the platform escapement you should see the letters F or S (this represents fast or slow). Should the clock gain time, move the steel lever to S (slow) or if it is slow turn it to F (fast). The adjustment of the regulator should be done in very small movements.