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1948 Rover 75 Clock Repaired – Converted to Quartz

Update April 2025

Since working on the Rover 75 clock detailed below this video I have adapted the process and believe the conversion to quartz is now better than ever. I am 3D printing an inner frame (see photo below this video) plus a different dial / glass spacer (which doesn’t block the light like this one did). Here is a video of a recent Rover 75 P3 clock converted to a self contained Quartz movement in April 2025

Back in the Dashboard

Our very kind customer sent me a photograph of the Jaeger clock reunited with the Rover 75 P3’s dashboard. We might be a little biased – but could you tell the difference? We hope not. The second photos shows details of the 3D printed internal frame. The 3D printer is a super tool for printing custom components and frames like this one. A majority of our classic car clock conversions now incorporate at least one 3D printed component.

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

My First Rover 75 Conversion story

This was my first chance to convert the dashboard clock from a cherished vintage vehicle, the Rover 75 from 1948. Extracted from the beloved classic car by the owner, the clock had been dormant for many years. The task at hand was to upgrade it to a Quartz movement while preserving its original exterior. The initial images depict the clock in the midst of the conversion process. These Rover 75 clocks are intricately crafted and prove quite challenging to dismantle.

The dis-assembled dashboard Clock from a 1948 classic Rover 75. At this point we started looking to fit the new quartz movement and adapted hands
We have an improved bezel now to let light into the clock
The re-assembled dashboard Clock from a 1948 classic Rover 75. At this point we have converted the movement and are experimenting with methods of securing the mechanism inside the case
We no longer use “bubblewrap”

3D Printing – Two Black Dial / Bezel Spacers

The problem with many of these vintage car clock conversions is the closeness between the hands and the glass. There was NO WAY the new movement with hands installed was going to fit behind the 3mm gap between dial and glass. To get around this we 3D printed 2 x black “spacers” – these were also conveniently useful for sandwiching the dial between. The front spacer added 4mm – just enough space for the original hands to rotate without snagging on the glass.

A photo showing the converted Rover clock ready for insertion back in to the case. The sponge has been cut to secure the movement and prevent it rattling while driving
REMOTE battery holder now used
A photo of the converted Rover 75 Clock showing the dial with the 3D printed spacer fitted to the front and rear
We now 3D print an internal frame
FINISHED - the class Rover 75 Clock ready to be returned to the customer

Video – 1948 Rover 75 Clock after Conversion to Battery

Here’s a video showcasing this 1948 Rover 75 Vintage Car Clock, sent to us for a modern upgrade to a UTS Quartz movement powered by an LR1 battery. Throughout the conversion process, we’ve maintained the clock’s original charm and authenticity, making only minor adjustments to the hands. To securely install the dial and movement, we utilised 3D-printed black spacer rings. For easy maintenance, the customer can simply twist the outer bezel to remove the movement from the case. With a battery life of 2 to 3 years, the clock only requires occasional opening for battery replacement or time adjustment. If you have a similar Vintage Car Clock in need of repair or conversion to quartz, don’t hesitate to contact Tristan at ClocksUpcycled.co.uk.