It takes someone with an exceptional skill set to repair an expensive timepiece, but it takes someone truly special to perform antique clock repair and restoration. To help you understand what these painstaking projects involve, the Tic Top Shop in Mason, OH, explains the difference between clock repair and clock restoration. Since 1963, when this venerable clock repair shop opened for business, they have kept their customers' heirloom timepieces running well and looking their best.

What Is Clock Repair?

Clock repair typically involves a set of procedures meant to keep a timepiece operating smoothly, and the methods used are essentially the same — whether it's a precision clock manufactured in the 21st century or a Swiss-made grandfather clock from the 1700s. Both modern and antique clock repair involve disassembly, parts inspection, cleaning, and replacement of worn parts. Few, if any, cosmetic repairs are attempted during clock repair; attention is paid primarily to repairing the movement.

What Is Clock Restoration?

Clock restoration, on the other hand, involves both clock repair procedures and cosmetic restoration of the case, dial, and decorative components. A reputable restoration does not involve customization; it should alter neither the functionality nor the appearance of the clock, but rather restore it to its original glory. Clock restoration requires a wide variety of particular skills, including vintage carpentry, wheel cutting, lacquering, silvering, and dial restoration. The artisan may even need to create lost or broken parts. Clock restoration is rarely performed on timepieces that are fewer than several decades old. The subject items are typically one of three types — antique wall clocks, mantel clocks, or standing clocks.

At the Tic Top Shop, the premier antique clock repair and restoration shop in Mason, OH, has been in business for more than 50 years, and they have the experience and expertise needed to repair and restore even the most precious of family heirlooms. Visit their website to view contact information, or call (513) 922-0315 to discuss your repair and restoration needs with an expert horologist.