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THE NOTEBOOK / On the workbench

On the workbench

Plan the fit before changing the parts.

20 guides
Several different second hands beside a quartz clock movement
On the workbench

Choosing a second hand for a quartz project

A second hand adds motion, but it must be specified for the movement and have space to travel.

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Long black clock hands beside a quartz movement and a steel ruler
On the workbench

Why a large hand needs the right movement

Hand size and weight belong in the movement specification, not just the styling decision.

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A detached white clock dial resting flat on a wooden work surface
On the workbench

Keeping a clock dial flat during a project

A flat face helps preserve the clear space through which the hands move.

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A divided wooden tray holding clock hands, washers and nuts beside a quartz movement
On the workbench

A parts tray makes small clock jobs easier

A shallow tray and a few labels can prevent a simple battery-clock job becoming a search for lost hardware.

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An assembled wooden clock standing upright in a support on a workbench
On the workbench

Testing a quartz build before hanging it

A bench test should check the finished assembly in the position in which it will be used.

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A wooden clock dial with a centre hole beside a digital calliper
On the workbench

Checking the centre hole without enlarging it blindly

The centre opening should suit the specified assembly without weakening or damaging the dial.

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A small round clock positioned inside a freestanding decorative picture frame
On the workbench

Reusing a frame as a clock surround

A picture frame can provide a useful surround if its depth, support and access suit the clock assembly.

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A wooden desk clock beside a pencilled side-profile plan and ruler
On the workbench

Planning a freestanding desk-clock project

A desk clock needs a stable base and readable angle as much as a well-designed face.

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A modern white clock beside cut-paper flowers and other removable decorations
On the workbench

Making a reversible decorative clock update

Change the surroundings of a sound modern clock before altering its permanent surfaces.

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