How a Quartz Clock Movement Works

Bill Hammack, “The Engineer Guy” gives us an excellent and easy-to-understand explanation of how a quartz clock movement works.

Quartz clocks may seem simple on the outside, but inside they rely on the remarkable consistency of a vibrating quartz crystal. When electrically stimulated, the crystal oscillates at a precise frequency (typically 32,768 times per second). An integrated circuit divides this frequency down to one pulse per second, which drives a small stepper motor and advances the hands of the clock.

In this video, Bill walks through the inner workings of a quartz movement and shows how electrical oscillation is translated into mechanical motion.

Quartz technology revolutionized timekeeping in the 20th century, making highly accurate clocks affordable and accessible worldwide.

[via Make: ]


Here you'll find a treasure trove of historical perspectives that have inspired many of our exquisite products. From the intricate designs to the rich cultural influences, each article will take you on a journey through time and craftsmanship. In addition to revisiting these fascinating stories, we will also provide valuable insights on how to use, care for, and maintain our products to ensure they last a lifetime.

Further Reading list:
Longitude by Dava Sobel
The Turk by Tom Standage
Black Forest Clockmaker and the Cuckoo Clock by Karl Kochmann
Black Forest Clocks by Rick Ortenburger
The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick
Connections by James Burke
Rare and Unusual Black Forest Clocks by Justin Miller