Custom Photo Frame Wall Clock

Posted: Sat Mar 06, 2010 4:57 pm     Post subject: Custom Photo Frame Wall Clock

I saw an idea in a magazine of 12 framed photographs in a circle on a wall representing the hours (1-12) with the clock mechanics in the middle creating a large (probably 6' x 6') clock. I would like to give this a shot, but am not sure what kind of mechanics to purchase. I do not know anything about clocks and have never built one. My question is how do I know which surface mounted kit I should purchase? How does the mechanics know where, for instance, 1 pm is? I saw a kit online with a 20" minute hand and a 16" hour hand. I am guessing this would be a kit to purchase, but again, how do the mechanics know where 1 pm is if I space the photographs 6" or 8" apart? Basically my concern is that the clock will not display the correct time. Any assistance/advise would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you,
Sconi

Posted: Sat Mar 06, 2010 6:11 pm     Post subject:

You need to get a dial layout grid for the proper spacing, then when marked out you will need to place the photos in the center of each. Klockit sells one, or you can find them online that you can print out.

http://www.klockit.com/products/dept-22__sku-57063.html

As for the works you need to get a high torque clock movement that will drive the large hands.

http://www.klockit.com/products/dept-157__sku-10045.html

If you are using hands that big I would buy the movement, and the hands together.

Posted: Mon Mar 08, 2010 3:46 pm     Post subject:

Amrad is correct - A dial (clock face) template will help you locate the various positions required for time markers. Basically, a clock face is made up of numerals set at 30 degree increments. For example: the "1" position is at 30 degrees (from vertical 0), the "2" position is at 60 degrees, the "3" at 90 degress, and so on. If you wanted to display every minute marker (the four ticks before your clock face numerals), then these will need to be placed at 6 degree increments. In most cases, you will not really need the minute markers.

As far as movements are concerned, a standard quartz motor (like #10002 for example) should be sufficient providing that the required minute hand length does not exceed 7" (from center mounting hub to the end of the hand). If the minute hand should exceed 7", then you will require a high torque movement (like #10115). Note that minute hand length is determined by your clock face diameter (more specifically, the time ring - or diameter which the clock numerals fall around).