How to Identify Wooden Clock Movements in Early American Timepieces

1. What Makes Wooden Movements Unique?

Unlike modern brass or quartz movements, wooden movements rely entirely on hand-carved gears, arbors, and plates. These clocks predate the mass manufacturing era. Most wooden movements hail from early 19th-century America, especially from regions like Connecticut, where clockmakers such as Eli Terry and Seth Thomas pioneered wooden gear production.

Several features define wooden movements:

• Pine or cherry plates
• Gears with deep-cut teeth
• Pinned connections instead of screws
• Rope or chain-driven weight systems

These characteristics help you immediately rule out later brass clocks. The moment you see two wood side plates holding thick wooden wheels together with square pegs instead of screws, you’re looking at a wooden movement.

2. Start with the Plates

The side plates of a wooden clock movement reveal a lot. Most early American wooden movements use softwood plates—typically pine. These plates might show shrinkage cracks, evidence of insect damage, or handmade imperfections. But those marks are part of their charm and authenticity.

Some clocks have triple-decker cases. In those, the movement often sits between two vertical wood posts and is secured with wooden pins. Examine these pins and construction details. They often reflect the specific clockmaker’s techniques.

3. Gear Count and Layout: Clues to the Maker

You don’t need a microscope to get started—just count. That’s where the phrase “Cog Counter” comes from. Counting the number of wheels (gears) in both the time and strike trains can offer strong clues.

Here’s how:

• Standard wooden time trains usually have three wheels
• Strike trains can have three to four wheels, depending on design
• Clocks with alarm mechanisms may have additional gearing

Compare this count with known layouts from period clockmakers. For example, Eli Terry’s pillar & scroll clocks follow a recognizable 30-hour pattern with specific wheel spacing.

Sketching the layout of the movement can help you identify rare variants and distinguish between similar designs.

4. Inspect the Escapement Type

The escapement governs how a clock ticks. In wooden movements, you’ll usually see a verge and foliot or verge and crown wheel escapement. These pre-date the anchor escapement found in most later brass clocks.

Look for:

• A vertical or slightly angled verge
• A wooden escape wheel with pointed teeth
• Signs of friction wear from repeated motion

Documenting these parts helps when reaching out for replacement options or custom reproduction.

5. Need Cleaning or Tools? Here’s What Clockworks Offers

At this point in your journey, you may notice accumulated dust, grime, or even minor structural issues. Wooden movements require extreme care during cleaning to avoid damage to fragile components.

That’s where we come in.

Clockworks, Inc. offers professional cleaning, oiling, and repair services for both wooden and modern clock movements. Our team uses gentle, non-invasive methods to preserve the wood’s patina while restoring function.

If you prefer a DIY approach, we carry:

• Precision tweezers and screwdrivers tailored for horological use
• Magnifiers, clamping stands, and movement holders
• Lubricants safe for antique wooden gear trains

We only stock products that professional restorers trust—and we use them ourselves.

By combining proper identification with expert-grade tools and techniques, you ensure your restoration work stands the test of time.

6. Look for Maker’s Marks—But Don’t Rely on Them

While many movements feature handwritten or stamped names inside the case or on the back of the dial board, others don’t. Paper labels may have worn away, and very few wooden movements were engraved.

Instead of focusing solely on names, identify by:

• Case style and construction
• Gear spacing
• Alarm design (if present)
• Bell placement and hammer configuration

With some comparison, these traits become easier to distinguish, especially when referencing online databases or antique clock books.

7. Document What You See

Use a soft light and a magnifier to inspect each component. Then take clear photos of:

• Front and back of the movement
• Each gear and arbor
• Mounting posts and case slots
• Weight system and pulleys

This documentation helps you cross-reference against known models and makes restoration easier. You’ll also want to note whether the movement uses a count wheel or a rack and snail mechanism for striking—wooden movements typically use a count wheel.

Final Thoughts

If you don’t feel confident taking the project on alone, our repair service is always an option. You can ship your movement to us, and we’ll handle the delicate work for you. Wooden clock movements deserve attention, not just for their age, but for their beauty and craftsmanship. Whether you’re restoring a family heirloom or embarking on your first repair project, accurate identification is the foundation of good restoration. Take your time, use the right tools, and don’t hesitate to seek help when needed.

Clockworks.com proudly offers everything you need—from expert cleaning and restoration services to hard-to-find tools, parts, and advice. Reach out to us at clockworks.com or email us at clockworks@clockworks.com for help with your next wooden clock project.

Updated on: 03/10/2025