Why Clocks Drift Out of Time and What You Can Do About It
Even a well-made, properly serviced clock can drift out of time occasionally. While this can be frustrating, time drift is usually the result of normal environmental changes, gradual wear, or minor setup issues rather than outright failure. Understanding why clocks drift—and knowing how to respond—allows clock owners to correct problems early and maintain reliable accuracy. This guide explains the most common causes of clock drift and outlines practical steps you can take to restore stable timekeeping.
Common Causes of Time Drift
1. Temperature Fluctuations
Temperature is one of the most influential factors affecting mechanical clocks.
Heat causes pendulum rods to expand, increasing pendulum length and making the clock run slow
Cold causes contraction, shortening the pendulum and making the clock run fast
Even a few degrees of change can cause noticeable drift over several days, especially in longcase or regulator clocks.
2. Worn or Dry Pivots
Mechanical clocks rely on polished steel pivots rotating in brass bushings. When oil dries out:
Friction increases
Power transmission weakens
The pendulum swing loses amplitude
As friction rises, the clock gradually slows and becomes less stable.
3. Dirty Movement
Over time, clock oil breaks down and mixes with dust, forming a fine abrasive paste.
This causes:
Increased resistance throughout the gear train
Uneven power delivery
Progressive loss of accuracy
A dirty movement often causes drift before it causes complete stoppage.
4. Weak or Damaged Suspension Spring
The suspension spring controls pendulum flexibility and geometry.
If it becomes:
Fatigued
Bent
Cracked
Improperly installed
…the pendulum’s oscillation rate changes, causing inconsistent timekeeping.
5. Beat Misalignment
A clock that is not in proper beat will drift unpredictably.
Signs include:
Uneven tick–tock rhythm
Clock stopping intermittently
Gradual time loss
Even slight case movement or settling can throw a clock out of beat.
6. Quartz Crystal Aging
Quartz clocks are highly accurate, but quartz crystals slowly change frequency over time.
This can result in:
Gradual gain or loss of seconds per month
Inconsistent accuracy despite fresh batteries
At this stage, movement replacement is usually the best solution.
How to Correct Time Drift
Depending on the clock type, many drift issues can be corrected safely at home.
For Mechanical Clocks
Adjust pendulum length in small increments
Re-level the clock and correct beat alignment
Ensure consistent room temperature
Avoid drafts, vents, or exterior walls
For Quartz Clocks
Replace batteries with fresh, high-quality alkalines
Reset the movement completely
Use the internal +/– regulator if present
For All Clocks
Verify hands are not rubbing
Ensure stable placement
Monitor accuracy over a full 24–48 hour period
Small adjustments followed by observation are far more effective than repeated rapid corrections.
When Drift Indicates a Repair Need
If timing adjustments fail to stabilize the clock, drift may be signaling deeper mechanical issues.
Professional service may be required for:
Movement cleaning
Bushing replacement
Pivot polishing
Suspension spring replacement
Quartz movement replacement
Ignoring persistent drift can accelerate wear and lead to more extensive repairs.
For residents of Calhoun, GA, Time and Seasons Clock Repair provides accurate diagnosis, cleaning, and regulation services to restore dependable timekeeping.
Preventing Future Time Drift
To minimize drift:
Keep clocks in temperature-stable environments
Service mechanical clocks every 5–10 years
Avoid frequent repositioning
Let clocks settle after seasonal changes
Use quality batteries in quartz clocks
Routine care ensures accuracy and protects long-term reliability.
