For centuries, keeping a turret clock running required it to be hand wound by a dedicated clock winder—an essential but often demanding task. Today, we can install automatic winding units that take over this responsibility, rewinding the weights once they’ve run down and eliminating the need for manual winding altogether.
The process
Our winding units are compact, powerful, and compatible with all turret clocks and carillons. Power is delivered to the clock via a transmission chain connected to a weight-driven, three-planet, totally enclosed, oil-immersed epicyclic gearbox. This gearbox is driven by a fully enclosed, fan-cooled 230–240V motor.
Battery-powered versions are also available, depending on the frequency and duration of local power outages. Battery-backed systems are recommended where power failures may exceed 24 hours. For areas where outages are typically brief, mains-powered units are preferred.
In the event of a mains failure, the clock will continue to run for several hours, depending on the amount of weight "drop" available.
Ten year guarantee
The Cumbria Clock Company Ltd provides a 10-year guarantee on all components of our winding units, including the transmission chain and installation.
All installations are carried out in accordance with the guidelines set by the Council for the Care of Churches and other relevant conservation bodies. The clock movement itself is left unaltered, ensuring it can be returned to manual winding at any time if required.
