Archive for October 21st, 2009
The cuckoo clock was a timepiece that surpassed the standard ways of telling time in the seventeenth century — the sun dial and the hour glass. Intricately detailed, the cuckoo clock not only keeps time, it is also a work of art. You should care for your cuckoo clock to maintain its beauty and keep it in working order. Here are my suggestions on how to properly care for your masterpiece.
Step 1 Understand that some cuckoo clocks require you to wind them daily (one day movements); others require winding on a weekly (eight day movements) basis. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for how to wind your specific clock model.
Step 2 Clean and polish the solid hardwood case. Use products that contain natural oils or simply dry dust the cuckoo clock. That seems to work best for me. Use a cotton swab (also know as a q-tip) to clean the intricate details. Avoid furniture polish and wax as this leads to a build-up.
Step 3 Remove the outer wooden case to view the inside workings of the clock. Gently clean the inside pieces with mild soapy water and a cotton swab or other small utensil.
Step 4 Take your cuckoo clock to a reputable clockmaker if you would rather have a professional cleaning. Check the phone book or ask friends and family for a recommendation.
Step 5 Hang the clock on the wall as soon as you finish cleaning and polishing. Use a good wood screw to keep it firmly in place and make sure the wall is level and the clock is straight. (see my October 14 post on “How To” : Hang a Cuckoo Clock, in four easy steps).
If you have any suggestions and/or tricks you have experienced in caring for your cuckoo clock, be sure to share them.