Revised Stand for a Traditional Tall Clock undergoing Improvements
Building a Custom Test Stand for Antique Clocks: A DIY Approach
In the world of horology, a single clock stand may not suffice for all movement testing purposes, given the variety of movement types and styles. This is especially true for tall case clocks, which require a special stand to ensure accurate testing.
One such custom test stand is designed for weight-driven ogee style American and antique clocks. The stand, crafted with premium 2 X 4's, kiln-dried and guaranteed to be straight, boasts a 2 X 2 box frame with four legs, a boxed-in base section, and removable hardwood cross pieces. The rails are made of yellow oak and do not require nailing or screwing, making assembly a breeze. This sturdy stand can comfortably handle two movements and possibly a third.
However, it's important to note that this stand does not need to be anchored to a wall or similar rigid structure, unlike some other test stands. This is because the best practices for anchoring a homemade tall case clock test stand focus on creating a very stable, rigid, and vibration-damped base.
To eliminate sympathetic vibration, the stand should be anchored to a heavy, solid base such as a thick slab of granite, concrete, or a dense hardwood board. The stand should also be securely bolted or fastened to the base, maintaining a rigid connection and avoiding loose joints that can amplify vibration. Vibration-damping materials like neoprene pads, sorbothane feet, or rubber bushings should be used between the base and the floor to further reduce vibration transmission.
Avoiding resonant materials or constructions that can sympathetically amplify clock vibrations is also crucial. Hollow or light, flexible supports should be avoided. If possible, the stand should be anchored to a heavy, stable structure like a wall stud or a dedicated vibration-isolated platform.
Loose components on the stand or clock mechanism should be checked for and eliminated to prevent sympathetic vibration. The stand should also be positioned away from vibration sources such as HVAC ducts, heavy machinery, or foot traffic paths.
These methods collectively minimize sympathetic vibration by maximizing rigidity, damping, and mass of the support system and isolating it from external dynamic disturbances. This creates a stable environment that helps preserve the clock’s timing and testing accuracy.
The author of this article, a horology enthusiast, decided to build a test stand instead of buying one due to cost. The stand, finished with leftover paint (Espresso) from another job, has a classy look that adds to its charm.
While exact detailed guides specifically for tall case clock test stands may be scarce, these engineering principles are widely applied in horology test setups and precision mechanical instrumentation to control vibration. If you're interested in learning more about specific materials or setups common in professional clock testing, feel free to ask!
Vintage clocks requiring repair may benefit from a custom-built test stand, particularly for weight-driven ogee style American and antique clocks. To ensure stability and vibration damping, this test stand, fabricated with premium materials, should be anchored to a heavy, solid base like granite, concrete, or a dense hardwood board, and securely bolted or fastened to it.
This custom test stand, designed for handling multiple clock movements, can contribute to maintaining the precision of the clock's timing during movement testing, as it minimizes sympathetic vibration by following these engineering principles.
