How to Identify Your Mechanical Clock Movement

Identifying the mechanical movement inside your clock can be tricky if you don't know what to look for. In this article, we will help you understand the information you need to have ready when seeking help from our Customer Support team.

FIGURING OUT THE MODEL AND MANUFACTURER

There are two main things you need to know when seeking help with your clock: the manufacturer and the model. Keep in mind the maker of the clock case and the movement inside the clock are not always the same. You will want to figure out who manufactured your clock cabinet first. This info can usually be found on the dial, or on the lower part of the main door as a sticker or plate.

CHECKING THE PAPERWORK & MOVEMENT

If you have any paperwork with the clock, check that for any numbers that may indicate the model of the clock. Once you note the information on the paperwork, it’s time to look at the movement itself. Carefully move your clock away from the wall and use the back panel or side doors to look at the interior of the clock. 

When looking at the movement, there are a handful of things to note, especially if you’re making a call to customer support. Firstly, look for any names or numbers stamped into the back of the movement. You will want to see how many hammers the movement has, and whether it is pendulum or balance driven. Is it a floor clock, wall clock, or mantel clock? And finally, is it cable, chain or spring wound?

This is all information we would ask if you make a call to customer support. Having it all on hand will help us assist you quickly. Pictures are even better. You can email us photos, which allows us to give you even more accurate support.

MOVEMENTS WE PROVIDE REPLACEMENTS FOR

Now, for a brief breakdown on what the movements we provide replacements or conversions for. Emperor clocks have used movements from Jauch, Urgos, Hermle and Kieninger. We don’t provide replacements for Kieninger movements, but Kieninger themselves still sell movements.

HOW TO IDENTIFY A BRAND BASED ON MOVEMENT NUMBER

For Jauch movements, we provide 3 replacement movements: the 100m, 200m and 300m. The old Jauch movement will have a 77 stamped on it for the 100m, and Pendell 110cm for the 200m and 300m. The 200m and 300m look identical, but the 200m is Westminster only with fewer hammers than the triple-chime 300m. 

For Urgos movements, the numbers usually start with a UW, followed by five numbers and sometimes end with a letter. Take a look at the Urgos conversion chart to see what replacements we offer.

Hermle movement numbers are typically 6 or 7 digits long, divided by a dash in the center. You can find examples in the Hermle conversion chart.

This should help you get a head start on collecting the information you need when contacting us for support. For all your clock needs, head over to EmperorClock.com.