Otis Singleton
Converting an electric clock to a battery-operated one is a great way to modernise a vintage timepiece, removing restrictive wiring and improving portability. The process involves carefully disassembling the clock, removing the old clock movement, and replacing it with a battery-operated movement. This requires precise measurements to ensure the new movement fits the clock's dimensions, and the use of tools like screwdrivers, knives, and pliers to detach and reattach components. The hands of the clock are particularly delicate and require gentle handling. Some clocks may also need adjustments to accommodate the new movement, such as enlarging mounting holes or modifying the hands. The conversion process can vary depending on the clock's design and the type of movement used, and it may be offered as a professional service for those uncomfortable with the intricate work.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Reasons to convert an electric clock to battery | Aesthetics, ease of placement, modern convenience, quietness, accuracy, no winding required |
| Items required | Battery-operated clock movement, screwdriver, carpenter's knife, glue, conversion kit, replacement hands, nut, washer, clock conversion service |
| Steps | Unplug clock, remove glass face, remove hands of the clock, remove movement, clean clock, buy conversion kit, replace movement, replace hands, tighten with nut, secure with glue, replace glass face, set time |
| Considerations | Delicate clock hands, shaft length, clock size, clock type, voltage, cost |
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What You'll Learn
Removing the clock's glass face
Removing the glass face of a clock is a delicate process and must be done carefully to avoid scratching the glass or damaging the frame. Before beginning the process, ensure you have a towel to place the screws and glass face on to avoid scratching it.
The first step is to unplug the clock and place it on a table or counter. If it's a floor model, push it over to a table or counter. If there is a protective glass face, carefully remove it. If the glass is attached to the front of the clock with a decorative ring, remove the ring first. If the glass is mounted into a front panel, you will need to unscrew it from the back of the clock and then remove the panel and take out the glass. Place the screws on a towel and keep them safe.
Now, you need to remove the hands of the clock. Pull the hands of the stem of the movement (gears and motor assembly) using your forefinger and thumb. Be very gentle as the hands are delicate. If there is a nut on the stem, use pliers to remove it, applying the least amount of pressure possible.
With the hands removed, you can now take out the movement from the back of the clock. If there are pressure clips holding it in place, pull them back to release it. If it is glued in place, use a knife to carefully cut away the glue.
Once the movement is removed, you can now take out the glass face. Be careful not to crack the glass as you remove it. Place the glass face on the towel with the screws.
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Disassembling the clock
Before you begin the process of converting your electric clock to a battery, you must carefully disassemble the clock to avoid any damage to its interior parts. Place the clock on a table or counter and identify the presence of a protective glass face. If there is a glass face, carefully remove it by first removing the decorative ring around it and then gently prying it out with a flat-blade screwdriver or a stiff knife. Be cautious, as the glass can crack if not properly handled.
The next step is to remove the hands of the clock, which are delicate and prone to breakage if pulled too quickly. Gently pull the hands off the stem of the movement, being mindful of any nuts attaching them to the movement. Once the hands are removed, carefully take out the movement, which consists of the gears and motor assembly. Some movements might be glued in place, so use a knife to cut away the glue, or if there are pressure clips, simply push them back to release the movement.
With the movement removed, you will now have access to the internal components of the clock. Depending on the type of clock, there may be additional steps to disassemble further, such as removing weights, pendulums, dials, or trim. It is important to keep track of the removed parts by placing them in order on a table for easier reassembly. Additionally, you may want to clean the clock before proceeding with the conversion process.
In some cases, you may need to remove the base plate or open the bottom sheet of the clock to access the electronic components. This step may vary depending on the specific model of your clock. Remember to handle the internal components with care and refer to guides specific to your clock model for detailed disassembly instructions.
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Choosing a battery movement
Battery-operated clock movements come in many styles, even for use with pendulums. They are available in various sizes to fit different clock designs, and some even have features such as chimes. Battery-operated clocks use a quartz crystal and an electronic circuit to keep time accurately. This type of movement is known for its precision, often losing or gaining just a few seconds per month. Modern quartz movements offer improved accuracy and longer battery life.
When choosing a battery movement, it is important to consider the size and style of your clock. Measure the size of the hole in the clock that the shaft of the movement fits through, as well as the thickness of the material. Ensure that the movement you are using fits your clock design. If you are unsure, some companies offer a range of battery clock movements suitable for different clock sizes and styles.
It is also important to consider the type of battery that the movement uses. Most battery-operated clocks use AA or AAA batteries. You should also consider whether you want any additional features, such as chimes.
Once you have chosen a battery movement, you can install it in your clock. To do this, first remove the old movement and hands of the clock. Then, insert the shaft of the new movement through the centre hole of the clock face from the back. Secure the movement with a washer and nut, being careful not to overtighten. Finally, attach the hands of the clock, ensuring that they are pointing to 12 o'clock.
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Installing the battery movement
To begin the installation process, place the clock on a table or counter, preferably with a lot of space. If there is a protective glass face covering the clock, carefully remove it. If the glass is held in place by a decorative ring, remove the ring first. If the glass is inside a front panel, unscrew the panel from the back, remove it, and then take out the glass.
The next step is to remove the clock's hands and the movement at the back. The movement consists of the gears and motor that make the hands of the clock move. To do this, gently pull the hands of the clock off the stem of the movement. They are fragile and may break if you pull them off too quickly. If there is a nut attaching the hands to the movement, be gentle when removing it with pliers. Once the hands are off, carefully remove the movement from the clock. If it is held in place by pressure clips, pull them back to release the movement. If it is glued on, use a knife to cut away the glue.
Now, you will need to measure the size of the hole in the clock that the shaft of the movement fits through, as well as the thickness of the material. Measure the length of the clock hands. Purchase a battery clock movement that fits the size of the hole. You can also buy replacement hands that fit the clock movement and closely match the original hands.
Slide the battery-operated movement into position through the clock face hole and tighten the supplied nut over the threaded shaft to hold the unit in place. If there are any clearance issues, a washer on the backside can be used to hold the battery movement box further away from the backplate.
Finally, gently slide the hour hand into position on the shaft, pointing to 12 on the clock. Once it is on, slide the minute hand on to also point at 12. To secure the movement to the clock, add some carpenter's glue or glue from a hot glue gun.
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Reassembling the clock
Now that you have removed the electric movement and replaced it with a battery-operated one, it's time to reassemble the clock. Before you start putting everything back together, it is recommended to give the clock a good clean. Use a soft cloth to gently wipe down the components, being careful not to scratch the vintage spun metal.
First, attach the clock hands to the shaft of the new movement. Point the shorter hour hand at 12 and gently slide the minute hand on to also point at 12. Ensure that you are gentle as these components are delicate and may break if you apply too much force.
Next, secure the movement to the clock using carpenter's glue or hot glue. Allow the glue to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.
Now, carefully place the glass and panel back over the face of the clock. Make sure that the glass is properly lined up in its slot before tightening it in position to avoid any cracking.
Finally, screw the back of the clock together and set the clock to the correct time. And that's it! You have successfully converted your electric clock to battery power. Enjoy your newly converted clock and admire its seamless, cordless design.
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Frequently asked questions
First, unplug the clock and place it on a table or counter. Remove the glass face by first removing the decorative ring (if there is one) and then carefully taking out the glass. Next, remove the hands of the clock and the movement in the back, which includes the gears and motor. Measure the hole in the clock that the shaft of the movement fits through, as well as the thickness of the material, and buy a battery clock movement that fits. Slide the battery-operated movement into position and tighten it with the supplied nut. Gently slide the hour hand into position, pointing to 12 on the clock, and then do the same with the minute hand. Secure the movement to the clock with glue. Finally, place the glass and panel back over the clock face and screw it together.
You will need a battery-operated clock movement, which comes in many styles, including for clocks with pendulums. You may also need replacement clock hands if the original hands do not fit the new movement or are damaged during removal. You will also need tools such as a screwdriver, pliers, and a knife or scissors to cut away any glue.
The cost of converting an electric clock to battery can vary depending on the type of clock and the specific requirements. Some companies offer clock conversion services starting from £60, while others charge between £65 and £75 on average. Converting a Grandfather Clock to quartz can cost between £95 and £155.
