Keeping Time with Tradition: A Classic Jaguar’s Clock Revival
As a white-haired embedded systems engineer, I appreciate the beauty of both classic design and modern technology. This story combines both perfectly, thanks to the ingenious work of Clocks4Classics. It all started with my 1964 Jaguar S-Type’s beloved, yet malfunctioning, mechanical dash clock.
The Inner Workings of a Timeless Design
The original clock relied on a time-tested mechanism that is accurately described on Clocks4Classics website:
The Smiths Pin Clock is a fascinating combination of mechanical and electrical techniques. The clock is based around a traditional clockwork mechanism with a rotating balance wheel and hairspring. The balance wheel rotates backwards and forwards at a fixed rate of five times per second and it is this motion which is used to regulate the timekeeping of the clock.
In order to maintain the oscillation of the balance wheel, the clock has to be provided with energy to overcome the losses in the mechanism. In a traditional clockwork mechanism this energy is provided by a mainspring wound by a key, but in this case the energy is provided electrically. A small solenoid coil consisting of thousands of turns of fine wire is mounted close to the balance wheel. Two shaped metal `pole pieces’ pass through the centre of the coil and are positioned so that their ends are very close to the edge of the balance wheel. When the solenoid coil is energised by an electric current a magnetic field is created and this provides a `kick’ which maintains the oscillation of the balance wheel. For the clock to operate correctly the electric current to the solenoid coil has to switched on for a very brief period at exactly the right point in the movement of the balance wheel. This is achieved by using a tiny set of electrical contacts which brush against a small pin projecting from the underside of the balance wheel – hence the name `Pin Clock’.
However, this elegance came with a hidden foe.
The Silent Killer of Tiny Switches
The miniature electrical contacts in the clock played a critical role, but they unknowingly carried a hidden danger.
When they flicked on and off to control the current flowing through the coil (inductance), a tiny spark erupted at the contacts. This spark, though seemingly insignificant, acted like a relentless sandblaster, slowly eroding the switch’s delicate surface – even the toughest materials like tungsten couldn’t withstand this constant bombardment.
Occurring five times every second and coupled with the mechanical brushing movement, this translated to millions of miniature attacks each year, eventually leading to the contacts’ inevitable demise.
Unfortunately, replacement contacts are not readily available and are very difficult to repair reliably.
Modern Technology to the Rescue
Clocks4Classics’ solution was a stroke of brilliance, as detailed on their website:
Clocks4Classics have overcome this problem by using modern electronics to replace the failed contacts. A solid state infra-red sensor is used to sense the position of the balance wheel and a microcontroller chip uses this information to control the current to the solenoid coil. The rest of the mechanism is left untouched so that the clock looks and functions just like the original, retaining that all important tick♫!
Preserving the Legacy, One Tick at a Time
This approach is what makes their work truly remarkable. It’s not a replacement with a sterile quartz clock.
The heart of the timepiece, the mechanical marvel of gears and springs remains faithfully intact and functional. The slight inherent inaccuracy of the original mechanism is preserved, ensuring the clock’s authenticity.
Clocks4Classics has gifted my Jaguar’s dash with a new lease on life, keeping perfect time the old-fashioned way – with a modern twist.
A Touch of British Craftsmanship
Clocks4Classics embodies the enduring tradition of British specialized craftsmanship in the classic automobile industry. Their team is dedicated, approachable, and true experts in their art. If you have a cherished piece of automotive history in need of a similar revival, you can contact them through their website at https://www.clocks4classics.com/. Whether you’re a hands-on enthusiast or prefer expert care, they offer a solution:
- DIY Repair Kits: For those comfortable tinkering, Clocks4Classics provides DIY repair kits for specific clocks and tachometers. These kits include the necessary components to breathe new life into your classic car’s instruments. Detailed instructional videos can be viewed on their YouTube channel.
- Full Service Overhauls: If you prefer professional attention, Clocks4Classics offers a full-service overhaul option. A skilled technician will meticulously restore your clock or tachometer to its former glory, ensuring continued enjoyment for years to come.
A Heartfelt Thank You
For the past seven years, or roughly one billion ticks, my trusty Jaguar’s clock has been ticking away with renewed vigor. A sincere thank you to Clocks4Classics for their dedication to preserving the soul of a classic while employing clever innovation.
