What Is a Quartz Movement in a Clock?

How Does a Quartz Movement Work in a Clock?

If you’ve ever owned a modern wall clock, desk clock, or battery-powered timepiece, chances are it used a quartz movement. Quartz clock movements have become the most common type of timekeeping mechanism in the world—thanks to their accuracy, affordability, and low maintenance. But how do they work? And what makes them different from traditional mechanical clock movements?

At Clockworks, we sell, service, and install quartz movements for all types of clocks. In this article, we’ll explain what a quartz movement is, how it keeps time, what types are available, and how to know when it’s time to replace one.

What Is a Quartz Movement?

A quartz movement is a type of timekeeping mechanism that uses a quartz crystal and battery to regulate the movement of the clock hands. Unlike mechanical movements—which use gears, springs, and weights to power the clock—quartz movements rely on electricity and crystal resonance to keep time.

These movements typically run on a single AA battery, and they’re incredibly common in wall/mantel clocks, desk clocks, alarm clocks, and quartz wristwatches.

How Does a Quartz Movement Work?

Quartz movements function using a simple but precise scientific principle:

1. A battery sends electricity through a quartz crystal.
2. The crystal vibrates at a constant frequency—exactly 32,768 times per second.
3. The movement’s internal circuit counts those vibrations and converts them into a steady electrical pulse—one pulse per second.
4. That pulse activates a step motor, which moves the gears forward and turns the hands on the dial.

This system allows quartz movements to maintain extremely accurate time—often within a few seconds per month.

Why Is It Called a “Quartz” Movement?

The term “quartz” comes from the quartz crystal at the heart of the movement. This natural mineral has piezoelectric properties, meaning it changes shape slightly when electricity flows through it and vibrates at a consistent frequency. That predictable vibration gives the circuit a reliable timing reference.

Without the quartz crystal, the clock wouldn’t be able to regulate time precisely. That’s what makes quartz movements more accurate than most mechanical alternatives.

What Are the Benefits of Quartz Movements?

Quartz clock movements offer several advantages over mechanical and wind-up clocks:

• High Accuracy: Most quartz clocks stay within ±15 seconds per month.
• Low Maintenance: No winding, oiling, or cleaning required.
• Easy Installation: You can often replace a failed movement in just 10–15 minutes.
• Affordable: Quartz movements are inexpensive and widely available.
• Quiet Operation: Some models (sweep movements) eliminate ticking sounds entirely.
• Lightweight: Ideal for wall clocks, novelty clocks, and DIY craft projects.

For anyone who wants a dependable, low-hassle timekeeping solution, quartz is hard to beat.

What Types of Quartz Movements Are Available?

At Clockworks, we offer a range of quartz movements to suit different clocks and preferences:

1. Standard Step (Ticking) Movement

This classic style moves the second hand in one-second increments with a ticking sound. It’s common in most mass-produced clocks.

2. Sweep (Silent) Movement

Instead of ticking, the second hand moves in a smooth, continuous motion. This option is ideal for bedrooms, libraries, and other quiet environments.

3. High-Torque Movement

Use this type for larger clock hands, usually over 5 inches long. These motors have extra power to move heavy hands reliably.

4. Chime Quartz Movement

These include built-in chime sounds like Westminster or bim-bam. Many models allow night shutoff and volume control.

5. Pendulum Quartz Movement

Combines quartz timing with a decorative swinging pendulum. These are great for clocks that need a traditional look without mechanical internals.

Each movement type comes in different shaft lengths, so you’ll want to match the movement to the thickness of your clock dial or face.

How Do I Know If My Clock Has a Quartz Movement?

You can identify a quartz movement by checking the back of the clock:

• Look for a battery compartment (usually AA or C-size)
• The movement housing is usually plastic and compact
• You may see the word “Quartz” printed near the hands or on the dial
• Most quartz movements don’t require winding or visible weights
• The second hand moves either in ticking steps or a smooth sweep

If you remove the movement and it has no balance wheel or mainspring, it’s definitely quartz-powered.

When Should I Replace a Quartz Movement?

Replace your quartz movement if you notice:

• The clock stops running even with a fresh battery
• The second hand stutters or skips
• The hands move slowly or not at all
• The chimes no longer sound (if applicable)
• The movement housing is cracked or corroded

Most quartz movements last 5–10 years, depending on quality and battery condition. If yours fails, replacement is almost always cheaper than repair.

How Do I Replace a Quartz Clock Movement?

You can install a new quartz movement in just a few steps:

1. Remove the clock hands carefully.
2. Take out the old movement from the back of the dial.
3. Measure the shaft length and choose a matching replacement.
4. Install the new movement through the dial hole and secure it with the mounting hardware.
5. Reattach the hands, set them to 12:00, and install a new battery.
6. Set the time using the dial on the back of the movement.

You’ll find complete movement kits at Clockworks that include hands, nuts, washers, and clear instructions.

Conclusion

A quartz movement is a reliable, low-maintenance clock motor that keeps time with battery power and a vibrating quartz crystal. Whether you’re repairing a wall clock, crafting a custom piece, or replacing a worn-out motor, a quartz movement offers an accurate and affordable solution.

If you need help identifying or replacing a quartz movement, contact us at clockworks@clockworks.com or visit clockworks.com for quality parts, tools, and expert support.

Updated on: 04/10/2025