Which Winding Hole On My Clock Does What?

Spring-driven and cable-driven clocks can have up to 3 holes on the dial.  These holes are for winding the clock.  The location and purpose of these holes are usually the same for all clocks.  We will discuss all three types.

One Winding Hole

This is a 'time only' clock.  It does not chime or strike the hours.  Winding the arbor in this hole will give the clock power to keep time.

Two Winding Holes

This is a 'time and strike' clock.  The hole on the right is used to power the time train and make the clock keep time.  The hole on the left is used to power the strike train, which make the clock strike at the top of the hour.  Some of these clocks will also strike once at the half-hour.

Three Winding Holes

This is a chiming clock.  Not only will it keep time and strike at the top of the hour, but it will also chime on the quarter-hour.  The hole in the middle, near the '6' powers the time train which makes the clock keep time.  The hole to the right powers the quarter-hour chiming and the hole on the left powers the striking at the top of the hour.

The direction in which you need to turn the key or crank varies between different makes of clocks.  However, it will be quickly evident with your clock as to which way is the correct direction to wind the clock.  It you try winding the clock in the wrong direction, the key simply will not turn.  Turning the key in the correct direction will produce a clicking sound.  Continue until it will not wind any further.