Expert: Michael Radi - 7/19/2010

Question
QUESTION: Hi, I was researching how to fix a wall clock I've had for several years.  I came across a post you answered on 3/20/09 titled "herman miller wall clock".  I have the same clock - Howard Miller Watch Maker 620-218 serial HO6453.  The large hand (minute hand) no longer will move.  It's a battery powered unit on the back.  I'm not sure what part to order to try to fix it, or if it's even fixable, or if I should try to take it to a repair shop rather than fixing it myself. The  black plastic unit on the back says "Young Town Quartz Made in China No(0) jewels unadjusted" and the number 12888.  If that helps.

ANSWER: You can usually replace the quartz movement for under $10.00 plus a shipping fee. The important thing is to match the original as closely as possible. I need to know how long the hand shaft is. You will probably need to take the movement out of the clock to measure it. I need to know how long the minute hand is from the mounting hole to the tip. Also, I would like to know if the minute hand is held on with a small nut or simply presses on.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Yes, the minute hand is held on with a small nut.  It is 12 1/2" from the mounting hole to the tip of the hand.

Answer
The only other thing I need to know is the thickness of the clock face, or the length of the threaded part of the hand shaft. You will probably need to take the movement out of the clock to measure this. You need a high torque movement for hands that long. They are available in 3 shaft lengths so please do that measurement for me or you can choose one from the following page:
http://www.norkro.com/store/index.php?main_page=index%26cPath=82_143
Michael
www.norkro.com
clock parts and repair.