How to Repair the Chime on an Emperor Grandfather Clock

Emperor grandfather clocks have established a reputation of longevity and durability and usually require little maintenance. Nonetheless, grandfather clocks are complex, and sooner or later they will need repairs. When you set out to repair an Emperor chime, a systematic approach works best.

Open the front face of the grandfather clock. Use a screwdriver to gently remove the glass face on the front of the clock so you can access the hands.

Turn the minute hand back 15 minutes. Apply gentle pressure while doing so.

Turn the minute hand forward 15 minutes.

Synchronize the chimes. Repeat steps 2 and 3 until the number of chimes synchronizes with the quarter-hour mark that the minute hand is pointing to. The grandfather clock's chimes should play four notes on the first 15 minutes (quarter), eight notes on the half hour, 12 notes at the 45-minute point, and 16 notes on the hour.

Check the minute hand. The grandfather clock may not be able to hold its tune if the minute hand was installed in the wrong direction.

Repair the minute hand. Hold the minute hand down with a pair of pliers and take off the nut with a wrench. Remove the minute hand and position it so that it matches with the number of chimes that are played. Once the minute hand is synchronized with the chimes, replace the nut and tighten it.