Home Garden

How to Set Westminster Quartz Grandfather Clocks

There are many quartz grandfather clocks that play the classic Westminster chimes on the quarter, half and top of the hour. Owning a grandfather clock requires some knowledge of the inner workings since the clock will be thrown out at least twice a year due to daylight savings time and the return to standard time. Setting the time is relatively straightforward, but there are a few important rules to observe so you do not damage the movement with your adjustments.

Things You'll Need

  • Step stool
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Open the glass door protecting the clock face so you can reach the hands. You might need to use a step stool if the face is out of your reach. There is usually a latch on one side that lets you access the hands.

    • 2

      Slowly advance the minute hand clockwise with your finger. Stop just before the 3, 6, 9 and 12 to let the clock chime under its own momentum. Moving the clock counterclockwise or through the chimes can cause damage.

    • 3

      Keep gently moving the hour hand until you arrive at the correct time. Unfortunately, you will have to advance the clock by 23 hours if you need to turn the clock back one hour for daylight savings time.