Quartz

A "quartz conversion" consists of replacing your clock's
existing mechanical/electric movement with a modern
electronically regulated quartz movement. We strive to maintain
the original appearance of the clock. In most cases our
conversions will not alter the face, hands, lens or casing of the
clock. Power is supplied from your car's electrical system
through the same type of power terminal as the original
movement so rewiring your car is not required. The existing set
stem will remain functional.

A quartz clock will run more accurately than the original clock. Most
automobile clocks built between the 1940's and the 1980's were
spring driven and electrically wound. Because of fluctuations in
temperature and voltage, it was nearly impossible to have the clock
run accurately over an extended period. Discrepancies of 2 or 3
minutes per day were not uncommon. Because the speed of a quartz
movement is controlled by the pulse of a quartz crystal, manual speed
adjustment is not required. Also, since a quartz movement does not
require electrical points to fire and wind the clock, and the movement
is generally maintenance free, the quartz clock does not require the
periodic cleaning and oiling that a mechanical clock would. The
quartz movement should last 5 to 10 years but may still require
occasional cleaning.

Before electing to convert your original clock to a quartz movement,
you should consider several factors. First, a quartz clock will not tick
like the original clock. Some purists like the sound of the clock
winding and the movement ticking. Secondly, if your clock has a
seconds hand, a quartz movement will be detectable in the smooth
non-stepped motion of the hand. While this may not seem important to
some, it can be a serious consideration if you are striving to restore
your car to original specs. Some car clubs are now assessing a point
deduction for having an incorrect clock movement! In addition, you
should keep in mind that in many cases, quartzing a clock involves
extensive modification to the inside of the clock and you may not be
able to restore the clock to an original movement if you change your
mind in the future. Replacement of the entire clock may be your only
option and it may be costly and difficult to acquire one.

Installing a quartz movement in your clock will usually be more
expensive than repairing the original movement. Prices can range
from $69.95 to $209.95 according to the make, model, and year of the
car. Also, there was often more than one clock supplier for a specific
type of car. Therefore, you should always contact us before sending
your clock in for a conversion. We can then discuss your options and
give you a firm price quote for your specific clock, in many cases
before you even get it out of the car!

Most quartz conversions can be completed and turned around within
24 hours of the time your clock arrives at our service center. More
complicated conversions requiring parts fabrication, tooling or
machining may take slightly longer, but usually less than a week is
required to complete the work.

All of our quartz conversions carry a full two year warranty covering
parts and labor. If service is required within the warranty period, simply
return the clock with a copy of the original invoice, an explanation of
the problem, and $12 for return shipping. We will then repair or replace
the movement at our option provided the clock has not been damaged
by mishandling, incorrect voltage, or tampering.