Quartz clock hands are supplied with different centre hole sizes and shapes to match the shaft type of the quartz clock movement. The two most common standards are EF (Euro Fit / Euroshaft) and NEF (Non-Euro Fit / round shaft).
EF (Euro Fit / Euroshaft)
Euro Fit hands are designed for movements with a flat-sided (European-style) minute shaft. The minute hand is secured by a small nut. The hour hand is push fit
- Hour hand: Round press-fit hole, 5.0 mm diameter
- Minute hand: Oblong / rectangular hole to suit euro minute shafts, typically 3.5 × 2.8 mm
- Second hand: Small round hole (size varies by movement)
EF hands are very common on European quartz movements such as UTS and Hermle. We sell the UTS EF Quartz Movements here
NEF (Non-Euro Fit / Round Shaft)
Non-Euro Fit hands are designed for movements with fully round shafts. All hands are push fit
- Minute hand: Round press-fit hole, 3.5 mm diameter
- Hour hand: Round press-fit hole, 5.0 mm or 5.5 mm diameter (depending on the movement)
- Second hand: Small round hole (movement-specific)
NEF hands are often used on Japanese movements such as UTS, Seiko, Young Town, and Takane. We sell the UTS NEF Quartz Movements here
Quick Guide
- EF: Oblong minute hole, 5.0 mm hour hole – minute hand has a retaining nut
- NEF: Round minute hole (3.5 mm), round hour hole (5.0 or 5.5 mm) – all hands are push fit
If you’re unsure which type you need, check whether the minute shaft is flat or round, or measure the shaft diameter before ordering.