Articles on: Mechanical Movements

Where Can I Find Grandfather Clock Kits?

Reliable Grandfather Clock Kits

Whether you’re building a tall-case clock from scratch or replacing an old movement in a cherished heirloom, you’ll likely find yourself searching for grandfather clock kits. These kits provide all the mechanical components you need to bring a grandfather clock to life—or back to life.

At Clockworks, we supply high-quality, customizable grandfather clock kits that suit builders, restorers, and hobbyists alike. In this article, we’ll explain where to find the right kit, what it should include, how to match it to your project, and what to expect during installation.


What Is a Grandfather Clock Kit?

A grandfather clock kit includes the essential mechanical parts required to build or restore a tall-case (also known as longcase) clock. These parts may include:


Where Can I Find Complete Grandfather Clock Kits?

You can find complete grandfather clock kits at specialty retailers that focus on mechanical clock parts. Clockworks.com offers one of the most comprehensive selections online, with full kits based on top-quality German movements and customizable parts.

Unlike generic suppliers, Clockworks builds kits using precision Hermle movements—a gold standard in mechanical clockmaking. We also provide U.S.-made chime blocks and American-built dials when available, offering a balance of tradition, performance, and style.


What Types of Grandfather Clock Kits Are Available?


1. Time-Only Kits

These kits include movements that tell time without striking or chiming. They’re great for minimalist or non-musical tall-case clocks.


2. Time and Strike Kits

These include a movement that strikes the hour and sometimes the half hour. They’re suitable for simple but classic clock cases.


3. Triple-Chime Kits

The most popular choice for modern and reproduction grandfather clocks. These kits offer Westminster, Whittington, and St. Michael melodies, chiming each quarter-hour and striking the hour.


4. Tubular Bell Kits

For those seeking the deep, resonant sound of a premium clock, tubular bell kits offer a refined alternative to traditional rod chimes.

At Clockworks, we can help match a kit to your specific case size, dial shape, and chime preference.


What Should I Look for in a Quality Clock Kit?

When comparing grandfather clock kits, always consider the following:


Movement Origin

Choose a German-made mechanical movement, such as those made by Hermle. These movements are known for long-term reliability, smooth action, and compatibility with most modern and vintage clock designs.


Accurate Pendulum Length

Make sure the kit’s pendulum length (in centimeters) matches the size of your case. Common lengths include 94cm and 114cm. The wrong length can affect timekeeping accuracy.


Matching Dial and Hands

The clock dial should match the movement’s hand shaft length and winding hole positions. At Clockworks, we pre-match dials, hands, and movements to avoid alignment issues.


All Required Parts

Avoid kits that exclude critical hardware. A complete grandfather clock kit should include the suspension spring, leader, mounting brackets, weight shells, chime rods or block, and instructions.


Can I Customize My Clock Kit?

Yes. Clockworks allows you to customize your grandfather clock kit by selecting different:

  • Pendulum styles (lyre, wood stick, brass stick)
  • Bob sizes and finishes
  • Chime options (rods or tubes)
  • Dial styles (moon dials, arched or square, silver or brass)
  • Weight shell styles (brass, polished, or antique finishes)

This makes it easy to match the kit to your case, personal taste, or historical aesthetic.


Do I Need a Clock Case?

Yes—unless you’re building from a full case kit or restoring an existing cabinet. Clockworks does not currently offer full wooden case kits, but we can recommend movement and hardware kits to fit vintage or homemade cases.

If you’re building your own case, make sure to measure:

  • Interior height (especially for pendulum clearance)
  • Movement shelf height
  • Dial cutout width and height
  • Chime rod clearance depth

We can help you determine the right configuration to fit your case before purchase.


What Tools and Skills Do I Need?

Installing a grandfather clock kit requires:

  • A basic understanding of clock mechanics
  • Common tools like screwdrivers, pliers, and a level
  • Some patience and attention to detail

Clockworks includes printed setup instructions, and we offer technical support by email if you get stuck during installation. Many customers successfully install their own kits without prior clock repair experience.


What If I’m Replacing an Old Grandfather Clock Movement?

If you’re replacing a worn or broken movement, Clockworks can help you identify the original by:

  • Matching the movement number (usually stamped on the back plate)
  • Measuring the pendulum length
  • Confirming chain vs. cable drive
  • Determining chime sequence

We’ll guide you to a direct-fit replacement movement or a full kit with compatible hardware. We also offer optional conversion kits, if you’re upgrading from a spring-driven to a weight-driven design.


Final Thoughts: Build or Restore with the Right Grandfather Clock Kit

When you’re ready to build or restore a tall-case clock, starting with a complete grandfather clock kit makes all the difference. You’ll save time, avoid guesswork, and ensure that all your components work together seamlessly.

At Clockworks, we help you choose the right mechanical movement, dial, pendulum, and chime components—so your project runs smoothly from start to finish.

For help selecting your kit or identifying a replacement movement, email us at clockworks@clockworks.com or visit www.clockworks.com.

Updated on: 06/10/2025

Was this article helpful?

Share your feedback

Cancel

Thank you!