Articles on: Mechanical Movements

What Is the Hermle 451-053 Clock Movement?

How Does the Hermle 451-053 Movement Work and What Sets It Apart?

If you own a mechanical grandfather clock and it’s no longer keeping time, the Hermle 451-053 movement may be exactly what you need. This powerful, high-quality German-made movement has been the go-to replacement for countless clock owners, hobbyists, and professionals for decades. In this guide, we’ll break down what the Hermle 451-053 is, how it works, why it’s one of the most common replacements available today, and how to choose the correct version for your clock.


What Is the Hermle 451-053 Clock Movement?

The Hermle 451-053 is an 8-day, triple-chime, weight-driven pendulum clock movement made by the Hermle Clock Company of Germany. It powers many traditional grandfather and longcase clocks, particularly those made after 1980. The 451 series is known for its reliability, precision, and ease of installation.

This specific movement features a front-mounted chime selection lever and hammers that strike either Westminster, St. Michael, or Whittington melodies on the quarter hours, followed by the full hour count. It runs on three weights: one for time, one for chimes, and one for the hour strike.


The Hermle 451-053 fits thousands of different clock cases and brands, including Howard Miller, Ridgeway, Emperor, and many other furniture store or mass-market grandfather clocks. Because of this compatibility, it’s one of the most commonly replaced mechanical movements in North America.

Its durable brass construction and precise German engineering mean it can last decades with proper care. Even if your original movement is no longer made, the 451-053 often serves as a direct replacement without needing to modify the case or dial.


What Features Does the Hermle 451-053 Offer?

Here are the key features that make this movement stand out:

  • 8-day run time — Wind the weights just once a week.
  • Triple chime — Choose between Westminster, St. Michael, and Whittington melodies.
  • Cable-driven — Uses cables instead of chains, providing smoother operation and a cleaner look.
  • Automatic night shut-off (optional on some versions) — Prevents chimes from sounding between 10 PM and 7 AM.
  • Front chime selector — Easily change your chime melody or silence the clock using a front-mounted lever.


How Do I Identify the Right Hermle 451-053 Version?

Hermle stamps the movement number on the back plate. The full number will look like this: “451-053 94 cm” or “451-053HS 114cm.” You’ll need to match the following details when ordering a replacement:

  1. Pendulum Length (PL): Usually listed in centimeters (e.g., 94cm, 114cm). This refers to the overall length from the top of the movement down to the bottom of the pendulum bob. Choose the correct
  2. length to ensure your clock keeps time properly.
  3. Hammer Orientation: The 451-053 comes in several configurations:
  4. Back hammers (most common)
  5. Side hammers (usually labeled with a suffix like “H” or “HS”)
  6. Make sure your new movement has hammers oriented to match your existing chime rods.
  7. Hand Shaft Length: This determines how far the minute hand sticks out from the dial. Common shaft lengths are 33.2mm, 53.2mm, or 55.2mm. Measure from the front plate to the tip of the shaft.
  8. Chime Style: Confirm whether your dial and case are designed for triple chime. If your clock only plays Westminster, you might be better off with a simpler movement like the 451-050.


Should I Repair or Replace the Movement?

If your Hermle 451-053 is more than 25 years old and runs erratically, it may be better to replace it rather than repair it. Worn bushings, pivots, and gears make old movements hard to restore to factory performance.

Replacing with a new movement ensures a fresh start and comes factory-lubricated and timed. At Clockworks, we stock only the latest Hermle production batches, so you’ll receive a brand-new unit—not a refurbished one.


What’s Included When I Buy the Hermle 451-053?

When you purchase this movement through Clockworks.com, you receive:

You’ll reuse your existing dial, weights, pendulum, and chime block—so there’s no need to replace your entire clock. Installation usually takes about 1–2 hours for an experienced DIYer or technician.


How Do I Install the Hermle 451-053?

Start by removing the old movement while taking pictures of the setup as you go. Carefully detach the hands, pendulum, weights, and cables. Once the old movement is out, mount the new one in the same location using the provided brackets or screws. Then reattach the dial, hands, chime rods, pendulum, and cables.

Always test the chime and strike functions before setting the final time. Use the chime selector to pick your preferred melody, then allow the clock to run for 24 hours to ensure proper operation.


Where Can I Get Help with My 451-053 Clock Movement?

At Clockworks.com, we’ve helped thousands of customers install and repair Hermle movements. Our in-house experts can answer your questions, guide you through the ordering process, and help you avoid common installation mistakes.

We also offer cleaning and repair services if your movement still has life left but needs professional attention.


Conclusion

The Hermle 451-053 remains one of the most dependable and widely used mechanical clock movements today. With the right information and support, replacing or upgrading your movement can restore your grandfather clock to its former glory—accurately ticking and chiming for decades to come.

If you need help identifying your movement, choosing the correct size, or installing it properly, reach out to us at clockworks.com or email clockworks@clockworks.com for personalized assistance.

Updated on: 05/10/2025

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