How to Replace Clock Hands Safely

Replacing clock hands seems simple, but doing it without damaging the dial or mechanism requires care, the right tools, and a bit of know-how. Whether you’re updating the style, fixing bent hands, or restoring an antique, learning how to replace clock hands safely ensures your clock remains accurate and visually balanced.

Step 1: Understand How Clock Hands Attach

Clock hands attach to the movement via a center arbor and are held in place by friction, nuts, or small pins depending on the type of movement.

Most clock hand sets include:

• Hour hand (press-fit)
• Minute hand (held with a nut or friction bushing)
• Second hand (if applicable—usually on quartz clocks)

Your approach to removing and replacing the hands will vary slightly depending on the movement (mechanical or quartz), but the principles remain the same.

Step 2: Prepare a Safe Workspace

Before working on the hands:

1. Lay the clock face-up on a soft towel or padded surface.
2. Wear cotton gloves to avoid fingerprints or scratching the dial.
3. Gather your tools:

• • Small flathead screwdriver
  • Hand puller (optional but ideal for press-fit hands)
  • Needle-nose pliers
  • Ruler or caliper (for measuring new hands)

Step 3: Remove the Old Hands Without Damage

Follow this order:

1. Remove the second hand (if present):

Gently pull straight up. Use a small cloth under your fingers to avoid scratching the dial.

2. Remove the minute hand:

If there’s a small hex or round nut holding it in place, unscrew it counterclockwise. Set it aside carefully.

3. Remove the hour hand:

The hour hand is press-fit onto the arbor. Wiggle it back and forth gently or use a hand puller for safe removal.

Pro Tip: Never pry hands off with metal tools directly on the dial. Always use a cloth underneath to protect the surface.

Step 4: Choose the Right Replacement Hands

Measure before you buy:

• Minute hand length is measured from the center hole to the tip.
• Hour hand should be proportional—about 2/3 the length of the minute hand.
• Confirm the mounting hole type (oval, square, round) matches your clock movement.
• Match the style to the dial design—spade, cathedral, serpentine, and modern hands are all available in various finishes.

Clockworks offers full sets that are pre-matched for fit and style.

Step 5: Install the New Clock Hands

Reassemble the hands in reverse order, taking care at each step:

1. Install the hour hand:

Push it straight onto the arbor. Do not twist or force it—apply gentle, even pressure until it’s snug.

2. Install the minute hand:

Align the minute hand with the 12:00 position. Secure it with the nut or bushing provided. Make sure it’s tight but not overtightened.

3. Install the second hand (if applicable):

Push the second hand gently onto the shaft until it’s flush but free-moving.

Important:

• The hands must not touch each other or the dial surface.
• After installation, spin the minute hand manually to check for rubbing or binding.

Step 6: Align the Hands Correctly

If the clock doesn’t chime or strike in sync with the time:

1. Remove the minute hand and reposition it to match the last hourly chime.
2. Reinstall the hand with the nut.
3. Move the hand manually past the hour to test synchronization.

Make fine adjustments until the clock chimes exactly on the hour.

Step 7: Final Test and Adjustments

1. Set the correct time by turning the minute hand clockwise.
2. Let the clock run for a few hours.
3. Observe the alignment at 12:00, 3:00, 6:00, and 9:00 to confirm accuracy.
4. If the hands touch or bind, gently bend them apart with your fingers or needle-nose pliers.

Step 8: Maintain and Care for Your Clock Hands

To keep the hands looking great and working properly:

• Dust them gently with a soft brush or microfiber cloth.
• Avoid polishing them with chemicals—they can discolor or bend.
• Check for looseness every 6–12 months.

If the hands shift or misalign, reseat them using the same installation process.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using metal tools directly on the dial – Always protect the dial surface.

Skipping measurements – The wrong hand size can interfere with timekeeping or case clearance.

Over-tightening the nut – This can warp or break the minute hand.

Forcing bent hands into place – Gently reshape or replace them.

Summary

Replacing clock hands the right way protects the clock dial and ensures smooth, accurate timekeeping. Always remove the old hands carefully, measure precisely for replacements, and install the new set with clean alignment. Whether you’re restoring an antique or refreshing a modern clock, the right hands make all the difference. For top-quality clock hands and tools, visit Clockworks.com or email clockworks@clockworks.com—we’re here to help your clock look and perform its best.

Updated on: 28/09/2025