Replacing china movement with quartz movement

Question

We have a 31 day clock made in China that is failing and I would like to replace it with a quartz movement. Can you provide instructions on how to proceed with the replacement and a source(s) for the new movement?

Answer

Steve, I have never written the instructions for that particular modification. Here is a summary of the steps:

Choose a quality quartz movement that will mount in the space in the clock. You can Google clock parts suppliers such as Klockit, Timesavers, Merrits, Mile-Hi, etc. Some of them have on-line catalogs. A couple of movements I use are the Hermle Dual Chime 2214 or 2215 series or one that has tube chime sounds that is called the Tubular Chime Quad. The mounting bushing must be chosen for the correct length for the thickness of the dial. This will include the combined thickness of the dial and probably a plywood mounting plate up against the inside of the dial. I cut one the size of the movement with a hole in the center to accept the mounting bushing. The hands on your movement will not fit the quartz movement, so similar quartz hands will have to be chosen, or your hands will have to be modified. The pendulum top hook will have to be modified to attach to the movement or a similar quartz movement pendulum will have to be chosen. A removable panel will have to be cut in the back of the case to access the movement for changing the batteries and setting the functions. Depending on the case, a hole (I use 5 small holes in a pattern) will have to be drilled to mount the speaker. I make a stepped wood block to hold the speaker on the inside of the case. I am getting ready to convert a couple of mail-order jobs right now, and I will send you a couple of photos if you will contact me at my shop email address below.