Vienna Clock: Can I Mute the Gong?

Mechanical 2-Weight Vienna Clock-Kit

$1,000.00

View Options

How Do I Mute the Gong on a Vienna Regulator Clock?

The Mechanical 2-Weight Vienna Clock-Kit delivers the beauty of traditional clockmaking with precision German engineering. It’s a favorite for both hobbyists and seasoned builders who want to recreate the elegant charm of a Vienna-style wall clock. But many new owners wonder: Is it possible to turn off the gong? Whether you’re sensitive to sound or simply want to control when your clock chimes, this guide explains your options.

What Is the Mechanical 2-Weight Vienna Clock-Kit?

The Mechanical 2-Weight Vienna Clock-Kit is a premium DIY clockmaking set. It includes a weight-driven mechanical movement with a gong strike that activates on the hour and half-hour. The kit comes with:

• Two polished weights
• Chain-driven movement
• Gong strike mechanism
• Dial and hands
• Suspension spring and pendulum leader

It replicates the classic longcase Vienna regulator design—slim, elegant, and precise.

Buy the full kit at: Mechanical 2-Weight Vienna Clock-Kit – Clockworks.com

Does the Clock Always Gong?

Yes, by default. The movement in this kit is designed to strike a gong once every half hour and then again on the hour, corresponding to the time (e.g., 4 strikes at 4 o’clock). The striking system is mechanical and operates through a rack and snail system that triggers the hammer to hit the gong.

However, there are practical ways to disable or temporarily silence the gong without damaging the movement.

How Can You Disable the Gong?

There are two primary methods to silence the gong:

1. Manually Lift or Block the Hammer

The hammer is the arm that physically hits the gong. You can lift the hammer away or gently block it from making contact. Common approaches include:

• Using a felt pad or piece of foam wedged between the hammer and gong
• Securing the hammer in an “up” position using a soft twist tie or string (non-permanent)

This method silences the sound without altering the function. The strike mechanism will still operate, but the sound is muted.

2. Disconnect the Strike Arm (Advanced)

If you’re comfortable working inside the movement, you can temporarily disengage the strike train. This is a more technical solution and may require:

• Removing the dial carefully
• Accessing the rack/snail mechanism
• Detaching or disabling the lever that activates the strike gear

Warning: We recommend this method only for experienced clockmakers or with professional support, as improper handling may cause damage.

Does Silencing the Gong Affect Timekeeping?

No. The gong mechanism operates independently from the timekeeping gear train. Whether the hammer hits the gong or not, the clock will continue to keep accurate time. You won’t lose functionality—you’re simply muting one aspect of the movement.

Is There a Built-in Silent Mode?

The Mechanical 2-Weight Vienna Clock-Kit does not come with a switch or lever for disabling the strike. Some modern mechanical movements offer a night shutoff or manual chime lever, but this traditional model stays true to the classic design.

That said, modifying it for quiet operation is easy with the manual methods described above.

Can I Permanently Disable the Gong?

You could permanently silence the gong by:

• Removing the hammer altogether
• Unscrewing the gong from the backboard
• Modifying the strike gear internally

But we advise against this. Permanent modification may reduce the value of the clock, void support or warranties, and limit future resale or repair potential.

Instead, stick to reversible techniques to mute the chime while preserving the original setup.

Who Should Consider Silencing the Gong?

You might want to disable the strike if:

• You keep the clock in a bedroom and want silence at night
• You have pets or children sensitive to sound
• You prefer the visual elegance of the clock without the hourly interruption

What If I Change My Mind?

That’s the beauty of reversible modifications. If you lift the hammer or block it softly, you can restore the sound at any time. It takes just a minute to reposition the hammer or remove any dampening material.

Is Support Available for Adjustments?

Yes. Clockworks offers guidance on clock setup, strike silencing, and movement adjustment. You can reach out through our contact form or request video chat support for visual help with hammer positioning and assembly.

In Summary:

While the Mechanical 2-Weight Vienna Clock-Kit doesn’t have a built-in silent switch, you can mute the gong with simple, non-destructive methods. Whether you use padding, reposition the hammer, or temporarily disengage the strike train, the clock will still run beautifully—just a little more quietly.

Order your complete Vienna Clock-Kit now at [Clockworks.com]() and enjoy elegant timekeeping with flexible sound options.

Updated on: 11/07/2025