Kieninger Clock Movement Identification

How to Identify a Kieninger Clock Movement

Identifying your clock movement is the first and most important step before ordering replacement parts, scheduling repairs, or evaluating your clock’s value. If you suspect you have a Kieninger movement, you’re in good company. Kieninger is one of the oldest and most respected clock movement manufacturers in the world, known for precision engineering and long-lasting mechanical quality.

At Clockworks, Inc., we’ve helped thousands of customers successfully identify and replace their Kieninger movements. This guide explains exactly what to look for and how to find the right match.

Locating the Movement Number

Every Kieninger mechanical movement is stamped with a model number, and you’ll usually find it engraved directly on the back plate of the movement itself. You may need to remove the pendulum, weights, or decorative panels to see the rear of the mechanism. Once visible, look for a short code that consists of letters followed by numbers.

For example:

• KSU 33
• HTU 06
• RSU 12
• MSU 47

This alphanumeric code tells you both the series of the movement and the year of manufacture. In most cases, the number at the end represents the last two digits of the year (e.g., 33 = 1933 or 2003).

What the Letters Mean

The letter portion of the code gives important information about the movement’s design and features. Here’s a breakdown of the most common series:

• KSU – Triple chime, chain-driven, with Westminster, Whittington, and St. Michael chimes
• HTU – Tubular bell movement, usually found in high-end grandfather clocks
• RSU – Chain-driven movement with a single chime
• MSU – Cable-driven movement with multiple chime options
• PSU, PK, SK, RK – Spring-driven movements, typically used in wall or mantel clocks

Each series was designed for a different purpose, and this classification helps you match the correct replacement movement.

Understanding the Date Code

The number that follows the letter series usually refers to the production year. For instance, a KSU 33 may indicate 1933, 1983, or 2003. To determine which decade your clock belongs to, consider its overall style, materials, and condition. Movements from the 1990s and later tend to look cleaner, more uniform, and have laser-stamped markings, while earlier versions may be engraved by hand or show more wear.

In rare cases, older Kieninger clocks may display Roman numerals, symbols, or serial numbers that don’t follow the standard format. When this happens, we recommend sending a clear photo of the back plate to our support team for expert identification.

Replacing an Old Kieninger Movement

If your Kieninger movement is more than 20–25 years old, it may be time for a full replacement. Even with regular oiling and maintenance, wear and tear will eventually take their toll. Replacing the movement entirely is often more reliable and affordable than trying to rebuild worn components, especially for post-1980s movements that are still actively manufactured.

At Clockworks, we stock genuine new Kieninger clock movements, not aftermarket substitutes. These are authentic replacements made to original specifications, so you can drop them into your clock without modifying the case or chime rods.

Finding the Correct Replacement

Once you’ve identified the full movement code, you can search for it directly using our [Kieninger movement replacement tool](). Entering your code will show the exact match if it’s available. If your model has been discontinued, we may recommend a close substitute or guide you toward a repair solution instead.

Still not sure? Reach out with a photo of your clock’s movement, and our technicians will help you determine the best course of action.

What If There’s No "Kieninger" Label?

Not all Kieninger movements display the full company name. Some were made for manufacturers like Ridgeway, Howard Miller, or Sligh, who rebranded them under their own labels. These movements still follow Kieninger’s model coding, though, and the construction style is distinctive.

Look for other clues—such as the chime selection switch, layout of the hammers, or specific pendulum length—to confirm the brand. Kieninger’s craftsmanship is unique, and our team can usually confirm authenticity with just a photo.

Spring-Driven vs. Weight-Driven

Kieninger produces both spring-driven and weight-driven mechanical movements. Knowing which type you have is essential when ordering a replacement:

• Spring-driven clocks are usually wall or mantel models. You wind them with a key, and they use tensioned springs to run.
• Weight-driven clocks are usually floor clocks (like grandfather clocks) and operate by the controlled drop of heavy weights over time.

Identifying this feature—along with your model code—ensures that you receive the exact match.

Get Expert Help

Kieninger clocks deserve expert care. If you’re unsure about any part of the process—whether it’s identifying your movement, removing it safely, or choosing a replacement—we’re here to help.

Clockworks has proudly served clock enthusiasts, repair professionals, and DIYers for over 30 years. We specialize in movement replacements, and our support staff can guide you from start to finish.

For assistance, email us a photo of the back plate to clockworks@clockworks.com or visit www.clockworks.com and use our identification form. We're happy to help you keep your Kieninger clock running for generations to come.

Updated on: 10/07/2025