WELCOME to the Old Clock Shop, Ventnor, Isle of Wight.
We offer a wide range of affordable old and antique clocks along with a selection of small antiques and curiosities. We run a friendly, non-elitist shop where you can browse comfortably and feel free to ask questions. Much of our stock is in "as found" condition or lightly restored, however, we can fully restore clocks and movements if required. Whether you are a serious collector or a novice we will alway offer helpful advice based on our 35 years experience in handling antique clocks.
All clocks are guaranteed working and as described. Clocks can be shipped to the UK and abroad. Large clocks can be delivered by us to the Isle of Wight or dropped off on one of our regular trips to London or occasionally, Liverpool. We have a base near Brentwood, London where clocks can be picked up or dropped off.
We are generally open Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday or by appointment, but if you are traveling far it is advisable to telephone beforehand and confirm this.
WE BUY OLD CLOCKS, COLLECTIONS, CLOCK PARTS AND CLOCKMAKING TOOLS.
REPAIR & RESTORATION SERVICE
We have a well equipped workshop where we can undertake most of the repairs which come our way. A full restoration of the clock is generally the preferred option and should be done to quality movements every 10 - 15 years. This entails complete dismantling, ultrasonic cleaning, attending to wear in pivots, pivot holes and pinions, checking of mainsprings, reassembling, oiling and testing. Generally a clock should then be re-oiled every three years.
We will do smaller jobs such as fixing broken components or putting things into correct adjustments etc. and do not insist on a full restoration all the time.
The most common problem we come across is a stopped clock due to a dirty movement or dried up oil. Once oil becomes thickened with dust and ground metal filings the increased friction will stop the clock, but more seriously, the clock will start to wear out at a faster rate resulting in higher repair costs.
For many cheaper clock a full restoration is not viable unless the clock has sentimental attachment, as the cost may exceed the clock's value. Cheap weight-driven movements, or movements with mainsprings, can be cleaned ultrasonically without dismantling, saving a lot on cost. This will usually do the trick, but fully dismantling it will always be the best option. We will look at your movement and give an estimate before work starts. Most jobs are done within estimate but obviously once work is underway further problems may arise adding to the cost. Work done on your clock is guaranteed 12 months for a full restoration.
