Correct Key Sizes for Clocks: Are You Using the Appropriate One?
Tackling the enigma of the clock key is crucial for any clock enthusiast - whether you're dealing with a vintage or antique timepiece. In this survival guide, we'll delve into the mysteries of the clock key, discuss the importance of the right size for maintaining your ticking treasure, and provide a handy dandy cheat sheet to help you pick the perfect fit.
Windin' down with mechanical clocks
Like your favorite vinyl records, mechanical clocks necessitate TLC! Some clocks require daily attention (30-hour beauties), while others just need a weekly touch-up (8-day marvels). Heck, there are clocks that are powered for up to 400 days - impressive, right? So, how do you wind 'em up? Insert the clock key into the dial face's winding hole, and turn it! It's as simple as that.
Is size really that important?
When it comes to clock keys, size does indeed matter! Most clock components share the same-sized winding arbors. That means if you lose your clock's original key, you can usually use one from another mechanical clock and, voila, it'll probably fit! A micrometre can help measure the thickness of the arbor, but usually, you'll need to remove the clock movement to access it. Once measured, just order a key of the correct size online.
Key shapes and varieties
Keys come in all sorts of shapes and sizes! For instance, bigger German movements typically require a #8 key, but some-dwelling in #7 land-will do just fine. Skimpy Asian and Korean clocks prefer a #6 or #7 key, while American mantel clocks hanker after a #5 or #6 key. Check out our image gallery below for a glimpse at some popular key types:
Grandfather and Ogee Clocks
These weight-driven Ogee clocks set their paws on a #4, #5, or #6 crank key, and grandpa clocks might fancy a #10 or #11 winding crank. Be careful not to use a traditional clock key on 'em - they need a winding crank! For weight cable clocks, these special cranks help hoist the weights to the top of your clock. Just insert the crank into the arbour and wind the weights 'til they reach the top, keeping 'em in full view.
Storing your clock key like a boss
Keep that clock key in a safe and convenient location to ensure your clock remains nice and ticky-tocky. You can store it next to the clock, within the front door of a wall clock, or in a convenient pouch inside the case. If maintaining a tidy abode with stern kiddos, lock that key up in its case to keep those little mischief-makers at bay.
Key size chart
Grab a cuppa and have a gander at the chart below to help you find the correct key size. Remember, this only applies to American and Swiss movements for clocks requiring a key. Weight-driven clocks - aka those without weight chains and no need for winding - are key-free!
| American movement key size (mm) | Swiss movement key size (mm) || --- | --- || 3 | 1 || 4 | 2.8 || 5 | 3.5 || 6 | 5 || 7 | 6.5 || 8 | 8 |
Mastering the clock key game
In conclusion, the clock key is not just a tool; it's a lifeline for your mechanical masterpiece. Whether you're winding an antique mantel clock, a towering grandfather clock, or a time-only carriage clock, equipping yourself with the right key size ensures your clock hums along smoothly and avoids any unwarranted damage.
With a truckload of key sizes at your disposal, educate yourself on your clock's preferences, and keep your treasured timepiece in tiptop shape for years of jazz hands and chime-tastic memories! Happy clocking!
P.S. For the curious cogs among us, check out our related articles on antique & vintage clocks to quench your thirst for knowledge!
Sources
- Mechanical clock - Wikipedia
- Clock Design: The Art & Science of Timekeeping by James Guy
- How to wind a mechanical clock - The Spruce Crafts
- Antique & Vintage Clocks
- Clocks: Mechanical and Electronic
- How to Determine the Size and Fit of Mechanical Clock Keys
- A Comprehensive Guide to Clock Keys
- Don't underestimate the importance of clock keys when maintaining your collection of mechanical clocks, such as grandfather clocks, mantel clocks, or vintage clocks.
- For proper winding, refer to the key chart for the correct size for American and Swiss movements, as some clocks require unique crank keys, like those for Asian, Korean, German, or weight-driven Ogee clocks.
- After successfully winding your clock using the appropriate key, find a secure and convenient storage solution to ensure it's easily accessible while keeping children safe from potential mishaps.
