How to Set the Beat on a Pendulum Clock (Step-by-Step Guide)
A pendulum clock relies on an even, steady rhythm to run accurately. When the “beat” is uneven — sounding like tick—tock with irregular spacing — the clock may run fast, slow, or stop altogether. Fortunately, setting the beat is a simple process that most clock owners can perform safely. This step-by-step guide walks you through everything you need to know to put your pendulum clock back in proper rhythm.
What Does “Beat” Mean in Clock Terms?
The “beat” refers to the evenly spaced sound produced as the escapement releases energy to the pendulum.
A correct beat sounds like:
tick…tock…tick…tock
An incorrect beat sounds like:
tick……tock—tick……………tock
An uneven beat is the leading cause of:
Random stopping
Inconsistent timekeeping
Weak pendulum swing
Escapement wear
Why Clocks Fall Out of Beat
Common causes include:
Moving or bumping the clock
Uneven leveling
Shifting on a mantel or shelf
Transporting the clock
Weak or bent pendulum crutch
Most modern clocks have an auto-beat feature, but many traditional models require manual correction.
Tools You Need
Most beat adjustments require no tools at all. Optional tools:
Small bubble level or Smartphone level app
Shims to help level the case
Flashlight
Step-by-Step Beat Setting Procedure
Step 1: Gently Start the Pendulum
Push it to one side and release. Listen closely.
Step 2: Listen for the Rhythm
Stand near the clock and determine if the tick and tock are evenly spaced.
Step 3: Level the Clock
If the adjustment doesn’t hold, the clock may be unlevel.
Check:
Side-to-side
Front-to-back
Leveling alone often fixes the beat, and a properly set up clock will have the pendulum crutch adjusted so that the clock is in beat when the case is level.
Step 4: Adjust the Crutch
The crutch is the part of the escapement that pushes the pendulum.
You will adjust it toward the louder tick.
If tick is louder or closer-spaced → move the crutch slightly toward the tick side.
If tock is louder or closer-spaced → move the crutch toward the tock side.
Most clocks allow this by:
Gently moving the pendulum left or right until you feel a slight resistance
Releasing and re-listening
Step 5: Verify the Beat
Let the clock run for several minutes. The beat should:
Stay even
Maintain strong pendulum swing
Stop drifting back to uneven rhythm
When Beat Problems Require Professional Attention
Beat issues that will not correct may indicate:
Bent crutch
Worn verge
Damaged suspension spring
Worn pivot holes or bushings
If you’re in Calhoun, GA or the nearby area, Time and Seasons Clock Repair can diagnose and correct deeper mechanical issues.
