This is something I have been asked about many times over the last couple of years. I have historically avoided converting Longcase (Grandfather) clocks to Quartz as I couldn’t live with the secondaThis is a conversion service that has been frequently requested over the past few years. Historically, longcase (grandfather) clock conversions to quartz were avoided due to the issue of the secondary seconds hand becoming redundant when using standard quartz movements.
After careful development and problem-solving, supported by bespoke 3D-printed components, this service is now available. It allows longcase clocks to be converted to quartz operation while retaining full functionality and visual integrity. All photographs and videos shown on this page are from recently completed commissions.
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Examples of Converted Grandfather Dials
The clock dials shown below are recent examples of longcase (grandfather) clocks after conversion to battery-powered quartz operation. For customers considering a conversion, it is usually simplest to send just the dial and hands. If the original movement also needs to be sent, that is absolutely fine, although postage costs will be higher.
Original movements are typically recycled or passed to a local clock repairer for spare parts. If the movement is required to be returned, it can be sent back separately, ensuring there is no risk of damage to the converted grandfather clock dial.
Wall Hanging Gradfather Clock Dial
A popular conversion option involves taking the dial and original hands from a longcase (grandfather) clock and transforming them into a stand-alone, wall-hanging clock.
This process requires the design and 3D printing of bespoke components, including a secure wall-mounting system and a custom surround or base to house the new quartz movements. The video below demonstrates the work involved in creating these clocks and outlines the steps taken during the conversion process.
For this type of conversion, the 3D printer is used to produce four key components:
- Dummy winder pans, preserving the original appearance of the dial
- An adaptor for the hour hand
- A frame to securely mount the two quartz movements
- A wall-hanging bracket, essential for safe and stable installation
More about the Grandfather Clock Dial Converted to Wall Clock | UK Service
Video Example of a Wall Hanging Grandfather Dial Clock
How’s it done
The key to this complex clock conversion lies in two elements: custom 3D-printed components and the use of two high-torque quartz movements. One movement drives the hour and minute hands, while a second, independent movement powers the seconds hand.
No two clocks are ever identical, which is why bespoke brackets, frames, and spacers are designed and produced for each conversion. These custom components ensure precise alignment and secure mounting of the movements. Examples of this twin-movement solution can be seen in the photographs above.
Want to Try it Yourself
If you’d like to have a go at a clock conversion, we offer quality quartz clock movements for sale to suit a variety of styles, Converting a longcase clock to battery power for time of day (hours and minutes only) requires the correct high-torque quartz movement to reliably drive long or heavy hands.
While this can be a suitable DIY project in some cases, clocks with a subsidiary dial introduce additional complexity due to space constraints and alignment. For these, I recommend using my conversion service, where I design and 3D-print a bespoke internal frame to securely mount twin quartz movements while maintaining correct hand spacing and alignment. Learn more about longcase clock conversions here: tips on converting a clock to quartz
Dual High Torque Quartz Movements
This is the most technically demanding part of the conversion process: fitting two quartz movements in a configuration they were never originally designed for. This challenge is overcome through the use of custom 3D-printed frames, which allow the movements to be accurately positioned and securely mounted.
The adapted movements are housed within a printed frame that is bonded to the rear of the dial. The result is a clock that operates and behaves exactly as it did when originally clockwork-driven.
The seconds hand is powered by a standard step-movement quartz mechanism using an AA battery, while the hour and minute hands are driven by UTS high-torque quartz movement capable of supporting the additional weight of solid brass hands.
Reunited with the Grandfather Clock Case
This second video was kindly sent to me from the customer after they re-installed the dial into the original grandfather clock case – and doesn’t it look fantastic.
Grandfather Clock Converted to Battery
The video below shows a selection of recent clock conversions. The presence of a ticking seconds hand helps preserve the character and sense of life associated with traditional mechanical clocks. You may notice the inclusion of replica (dummy) winders, used to maintain the original appearance of each dial. Crucially, all original clock hands are retained. Each set of hands is carefully re-worked to fit the modern high-torque quartz movements, ensuring both reliable operation and visual authenticity.
This level of attention to detail is central to the conversion process, resulting in clocks that remain true to their original design while benefiting from modern, dependable timekeeping.
Convert your Grandfather Clock
The photographs and videos shown here feature recent grandfather clock conversions and are intended to provide reassurance in the quality of workmanship. The primary objective of each conversion is to return the clock dial looking exactly as it has for decades, with no visible alteration to its appearance.
The only difference is internal: the clock is now powered by modern, highly accurate quartz movements. None of the clock’s original character is lost, and visitors to the home will not notice any change.
What owners will notice is the convenience — no winding, no costly mechanical repairs, and consistently accurate timekeeping.
More Longcase Clocks Resurrected
Shown below are further examples of recent clocks converted to quartz operation. Every clock is different and requires individual re-tooling and re-working to accommodate modern quartz mechanisms correctly.
In all of the clocks shown, the original hands have been retained and re-used. They are not replaced with inexpensive modern replicas. Preserving the original hands — whether ornate brass or simple blackened steel — is considered essential to maintaining the authenticity and character of each clock.
My Favourite Conversion to Date
The clock featured in the video below is a standout example of this conversion work. The original brass hands are a key part of the clock’s character, and replacing them with modern steel replicas would significantly detract from its appearance. Preserving the clock so that it looks exactly the same as it always has remains the highest priority throughout the conversion process.
SHOP – Vintage Clocks Converted to Quartz
Don’t forget I have a small selection of Vintage Clocks for Sale in my online SHOP. Below is an example of clocks already professionally converted to quartz. These vintage clocks were all sold in our online store. Pop over now and browse our small collection of clocks already converted to quartz. Every clock is different and all clocks retain their original character and patina.
Clocks Currently Available (all AA battery powered)
Examples of Clocks Sold Recently
The clocks shown below have all been sold following a conversion to Quartz by Tristan Haskins. Each clock is 100% unique with its own patina and character by the bucket load. In all cases – each clock keeps its original hands, glass, dial and bezel. When you purchase a ClocksUpcycled vintage clock you are helping the planet – keeping vintage clocks out of landfill – and preserving a little bit of history.
