Leonietime.com - Handmade Clocks in Copper, Steel and Wood by Leonie Lacouette

Clock Questions & Answers

Click to download a Word Document with these instructions.

For tide clock setting information, click here.

Power Source: Most of my clocks take either one or two AA batteries. A few of the larger ones require a C battery.

What if the Clock Won't Run? Don't panic. First, try the troubleshooting tips below. If those don't help, please contact me. All of my clocks are guaranteed to run trouble-free for many years. If you're having a problem, I'll gladly help solve it.

Always call or email before returning any clock. Many problems can be "fixed" long-distance.

Hanging & Troubleshooting:

Use the right hardware. Hang clock on a nail or screw not a picture hook. For the heavier pieces, be sure to sink the nail or screw into a stud, not drywall.
Use a new, strong battery. A nearly dead battery may propel the pendulum but not the hands or sometimes vice versa. Batteries can lose power just sitting in the package, so "new" may not mean "strong". Try a battery you've tested…like the one in your TV remote control. Make sure the battery is oriented correctly. The negative (flat) end should rest against the metal spring.
Set the time. First rotate the minute hand only until both hands line up at 12:00. If the hands don't line up exactly, gently but firmly move them to 12:00. If this is not done before setting the time, then the clock will never keep accurate time. Then, to set the time, rotate the minute hand clockwise. The hour hand will follow by itself.
Check the tilt. The clock should hang parallel to the wall so the pendulum swings freely. Minor adjustment-usually a slight tilt outward at the top-may be necessary.
Swing the pendulum. Give the pendulum a gentle push to start it swinging. It should keep going.
Check for obstructions. Make sure the hands aren't stuck on anything (or on each other). If they have become loose or bent, unscrew the cap nut holding them on and remove both hands. (The minute hand lifts off. You may need to gently twist the hour hand as you pull.) Straighten both hands and then replace them: First press the hour hand firmly onto the shaft. Then replace the minute hand and screw the cap nut back on.
Avoid breezes, vibrations and humidity. A light breeze from a window, fan or air conditioner can stop a temperamental pendulum. So can shaking (earthquakes, aftershocks, etc.). These clocks do not belong outdoors or in bathrooms, as humidity can damage the finish and cause battery corrosion.

Cleaning: All copper and nickel silver elements are coated with clear polyurethane. Simply dust with a dry or damp cloth. Use glass cleaner if necessary, but never use metal polish or abrasive cleaners. Stainless steel parts are not coated. Clean with a paper towel or soft cloth and glass or stainless steel cleaner. For stubborn fingerprints, try isopropyl rubbing alcohol. Multiple wipes with several different paper towels help. We have yet to figure out who dared to call this steel stainless!

These clocks are guaranteed to give you service and pleasure for years to come. If you have any questions that aren't answered here, please let me know. Enjoy!