The kit comes with illustrated instructions that are fairly easy to follow. However, there are a few tips and tricks that this guide will cover, making the build process really easy.
This is not a detailed step-by-step. Those can be found in the magazine included with the kit. This guide points out some of the more important issues when building the kit.
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Step #1:
Next
- Open up the box, and check your parts against the parts list in the included magazine.
Step #2:
Next
- All the steps (and numbering) will directly correlate to the steps in the included magazine.
- 1.1 shows the location of the spring system. This part is used to switch between the timing mechanism for 9 - 3 and 3-9. (see instructions)
- 1.2 shows the cam mechanism assembly. Simple!
- 1.3 Gear assemblies attached to the winding mechanism.
Step #3:
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- 1.4 The entire assembly is screwed to the center plate.
- If you plan on hooking up an Arduino, this is the time to add the metal strips as per the directions. I did not add them.
Step #4:
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- 2.1 Additional gears are added
- Make sure the arrow on the gear faces the "notch" in the "other" gear. I have no other way of explaining this. Take a look at the picture to see what I mean.
Step #5:
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- 3.1 Add the faceplate.
- And remove the pin (shown in picture) that held all the gears together (see instructions).
Step #6:
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- 4.1 Now you can attach the spring mechanism with 3 small screws in the back.
Step #7:
Next
- 5.1 This little mechanism switches the rotating weights based on the time of day.
- It's easy to assemble.
- Make sure the "square" part of the assembly is in the "rectangular" opening in the longer piece. Again, refer to the instructions.
- It is NOT completely assembled in the first picture. It is in the 2nd!
- Next, attach the entire assembly to the clock body with 1 screw that has an integral washer.
Step #8:
Next
- 6.1 It says to add the screws to this piece. I did, but found it easier to remove them and add them in a later step.
- 6.2 Now you can assemble 1 of the timing weights. Match the shorter one with the part as in picture 2.
- 6.3 Attach the retaining plate (arrow up).
Step #9:
Next
- 6.3 continued
- Next, attach the weight system with the longer rod to the plastic piece pictured.
- And add the retaining clip (arrow up).
- 6.4 find the arrow on the escapement gear.
- 6.5 assemble all 3 gears as per the instructions. Make sure the arrow is lined up with the opening on the plastic plate.
Step #10:
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- 6.6 Connect both assemblies together.
- 6.7 Do not forget to add the 3rd piece of plastic. This is used to hang the weights.
Step #11:
Next
- 6.8 Now you need to hang the weights.
- Thread the included nylon string through the top of the weight;
- Next, through the hole in the plastic hanger;
- Followed by threading it under the hanger and out the top.
- We will tie them later.
Step #12:
Next
- 7.1 Attach the weight system to the clock body with 3 screws.
Step #13:
Next
- 8.1 Insert the square bar into the spring mechanism
- and attach the back plate and cap (not pictured).
Step #14:
Next
- 9.1 Adjust the height of each weight mechanism.
- You need to look inside the clock at the part that raises and lowers each mechanism (picture 1)
- The rod of the weight should be 1mm above that part (when it is in the horizontal position).
- If it is not in the horizontal position, use a screw driver to "flip it" horizontally. Adjust the corresponding weight to be 1mm above it by tying a knot in the string and adjusting the plastic weight hanger. (Look at the instructions; it's easier than it sounds!)
- Flip the mechanism again and adjust the other weight.
Step #15:
- 10.1 Add the dial
- Wind it up and enjoy.
- I waited until I heard a large "clunk;" at that point I adjusted the dial to be 9pm.
- To adjust the time: Hold the clock upside down and let the spring mechanism spin. You can hold the large gear on the side to stop it when the time is correct.
