Making
Clocks
by Stan Bray
Softcover
150 x 210mm
124pp
Published by Nexus Special Interests Ltd, Kent, UK.
R.R.P.$14.90
ISBN 1-85486-214-6
As reviewed in House & HOME Issue 73
If you are interested in making the whole clock and not just the wooden case, Stan Bray's Making Clocks claims that it is not too difficult if you have the basic equipment including some form of metal lathe. Even if you don't want to make your own mechanism, the book provides interesting reading as a simple explanation of how mechanical clocks work.
The author notes that you may have to adjust the time on your homemade clock once a week or so, but this was common with older mechanisms anyway. Modern timepieces are far more accurate by comparison.
Once you understand the various components involved you can make a clock out of a variety of materials including plastic and Meccano parts. A lathe is virtually essential, but for many tasks handtools will suffice.
Making Clocks is an overview of the process rather than a step-by-step description of making a specific clock. Nonetheless it provides a good introduction to the subject and with either experimentation or some additional data from other sources, you can finish up with a working clock you've built yourself.
Photos: Black & White
Units of Measurement: Imperial
Contents
Introduction
History
The Frame
Providing The Power
Pendulums
Escapements
The Going Train & Motion Work
Dividing
Wheeles and Pinions
Finishing
Faces, Hands and Cases