Clock making changed dramatically with the invention of the quartz movement over 4 decades ago. Before that, battery operated movements were not as reliable, and some models actually had to be properly balanced just to operate.
Now, quartz movements use a slice of a cultured quartz crystal bar, which is very accurately angle cut, and when electrified, resonates, causing the electrical circuit around it to produce a specific frequency output. Imagine a tuning fork that can run essentially forever (or at least until you need to change the batteries). , The accuracy and stability of quartz crystals is nothing short of amazing. This makes it easy to have clock movements that are accurate to within a couple of minutes a year. Another advantage to the new quartz movements is that they do not have to be leveled, and can operate in almost any position. The only exception is quartz movements with a pendulum function. By the way, pendulums on quartz movements have nothing to do with time-keeping, they are just there to add an authentic touch.
Since you can make a clock out of virtually anything-Why not give it a try!
You can use:
- CD’s
- Tennis Rackets
- Old Vinyl Records
- Metal Boxes
- Plates
- Wood Slabs
- Cast Iron Pans
- Computer Circuit Boards
- Marquetry
- Signs
- Decorated Foam Core Boards
- Books
- Paintings & Drawings
- Photos
- Needlepoint & Quilts
- Nautical Steering Wheels
- Propellers
- Hub Caps
- Slate
- Tiles
- Stained Glass
- Mirrors
The list is almost endless. All you have to do is pick something that is 3/4″ thick or less and you are ready to make your own custom clock design. The material thickness will determine the hand shaft length you will need, and we have a lot to choose from. Try clock making and let us help you make it easy!