Expert: Michael Radi - 2/8/2009

Question
I have an Emperor regulator clock that I built over 20 years ago. It has a Hermle 1050-030A / 38cm movement. The dial is about 7.5 inches in diameter. The clock has not been used for several years because it is difficult to access to wind. I would like to replace the mechanical movement with either an electric or battery operated movement. Is this possible? If so, what type of movement would I need to purchase. I would like it to have a pendulum. Also could I keep the same dial or would I have to replace the entire dial as well?

Thanks

Answer
Yes you can replace the movement with a battery operated one. There are a few things to consider: A time only quartz movement will cost less than $5.00, chime and pendulum features will make it more expensive. A quartz movement with pendulum will be about $11.00. Shipping is in the $5.00 to $7.00 range.
If you want the new movement to chime you are going to spend $28.00 to $50.00. The electronic chiming movements won't sound as good as your mechanical chimes.
Your clock face has winding holes that will be empty if you replace the movement.
You will also have to change the hands but replacements are available and you should be able to find a good match for under $1.00.
What you need to know if you do this change:
How thick is your clock face? Quartz movements come with different hand shaft lengths the face thickness.
Will anything be in the way of the pendulum? Your pendulum hangs on the back of the movement. Battery movements have the pendulum hanger directly under the movement. If there is a wooden block or recessed glass under the clock face the pendulum might hit it.
You can see these quartz clock movements at:
http://www.norkro.com/index_files/page0013.htm
Let me know if you have any questions.