How do I start my clock?

Clocks with pendulums:
​After the clock is fully wound, give the pendulum a gentle push.  If the pendulum doesn't start swinging, give it a slightly harder push.  If the clock is level and is adjusted correctly, the pendulum should begin to swing. 


 

Some cuckoos have a girl figurine seated on a swing instead of a traditional pendulum.  This kind of pendulum bounces up and down instead of swinging back and forth.  Give the figurine a slight downward pull and release her to start the clock.  (See youtube video by Darnell Martin to left.)
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To start an anniversary clock, rotate the pendulum (1/2 circle) and release.  (Youtube video by Bill Stoddard).




 Clocks without pendulums
Some clocks have a balance wheel that spins back and forth, similar to the movement in a watch.  This is called a platform escapement.  These clocks should start automatically when they are wound.  (See the example to left uploaded by North Coast Imports).