Why You Should Avoid Buying Chinese-Made Mechanical Clocks

As a clock enthusiast, collector, or someone simply looking to purchase a dependable antique or vintage clock, it’s natural to consider all your options. Chinese-made mechanical clocks are often attractively priced and readily available through online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace and eBay, but before clicking “Buy Now,” it’s worth understanding why many horologists and repair professionals caution against these clocks—and why you may want to steer clear of them.

Inferior Craftsmanship and Materials

The most common criticism of Chinese-made mechanical clocks lies in their construction. Many are made using low-grade materials—cheap metals for gears, soft brass for plates, and low-tolerance machining. This results in movements that may run erratically, wear quickly, or fail outright after only a short period.

Chinese companies were producing them by the thousands.

Some of the most frequent problems reported include:

Misaligned pivots and poorly cut gears
Escapements are prone to failure
Strong mainsprings (31-day clocks) that are dangerous to work on
Inaccurate timekeeping, even after careful regulation
Unreliable striking or chiming mechanisms

These issues aren’t just frustrating—they often make the clock uneconomical to repair, since the labor involved exceeds the clock’s value.

Daniel Dakota movement — _{A typical Chinese-made movement}

Lack of Longevity and Serviceability

High-quality mechanical clocks from North America, Europe, or Japan can run for decades with proper care. By contrast, many Chinese-made mechanical clocks barely survive beyond a few years. The movements are often designed without repair in mind. In some cases, they’re riveted instead of screwed together, making disassembly and servicing impossible or impractical.

If you’re knowledgeable about clock repair, these clocks can be serviced; however, if the parts are excessively worn, replacement parts are virtually impossible to find.

You won’t find service manuals or replacement parts for most Chinese-made movements, and the quality is often so inconsistent that even parts from the same model can’t be interchanged reliably.

Few professional clock repairers will touch these clocks. Those who do will often try to convince you to replace the movement with a quartz one, and to be honest, that’s not a bad option, particularly if the case is in good condition.

Daniel Dakota wall clock, one of Tempus Fugits more popular models — _{Daniel Dakota wall clock}

Knock-Off Designs and Deceptive Marketing

Many Chinese mechanical clocks mimic the outward appearance of high-end brands or antique designs. You’ll find skeleton clocks that resemble Hermle or Kieninger movements, regulator wall clocks styled like Vienna regulators, or “box” clocks with none of the refinement of the originals.

Some listings may even use phrases like “German-style movement” or “vintage design” to evoke a sense of quality or authenticity. Don’t be fooled—these are marketing tactics that mask low-grade manufacturing.

They Undermine the Clockmaking Tradition

Purchasing cheaply made mechanical clocks can inadvertently support an industry that values mass production over tradition, quality, and craftsmanship. When you buy from reputable makers or antique sources, you’re helping preserve centuries of horological heritage.

Brands and Labels to Approach with Caution

Western-sounding brand names were created specifically for export to make the products more appealing to North American consumers. While not every clock with a Chinese movement is inherently bad, the following brands and sellers are widely reported in horological forums and repair circles as problematic:

Citizen
Any clock that has “31 day” inscribed on the clock face
Any clock with directional winding arrows
Bulova
Daniel Dakota, the most well-known export brand, sold at big-box stores
Style House
Emperor Clock Company
Kingston
Andover
Tempus Fugit, not an actual brand, but commonly printed on dials of Chinese clocks
Regulator, like “Tempus Fugit,” many wall clocks were simply labeled “Regulator” with no brand
Alaron
Mirado
Elgin, pendulum wall clocks with faux weights or decorative fronts
Westclox / Ingraham (rebranded)

There are many other brands, of course. Many of these are rebranded or unbranded mechanical clocks that look appealing in photos but have disappointing performance.

What to Buy Instead

If you’re seeking a mechanical clock that’s beautiful, functional, and serviceable, consider these alternatives:

Antique or vintage clocks: Seth Thomas, Ansonia, Sessions, Gilbert, Waterbury, Arthur Pequegnat, Gustav Becker, HAC, Mauthe, Junghans, or Kienzle
Modern German makers: Hermle, Kieninger (now part of Howard Miller), Schneider
Japanese movements: Seiko, Rhythm (mostly quartz, but quality nonetheless)
North American producers: Howard Miller (uses German Kieninger movements), older Ridgeway clocks used Hermle and Urgos), Chelsea Clock (USA)

These makers have established reputations, better quality control, and are backed by communities of repair professionals and collectors.

Final Thoughts

The allure of a budget-friendly mechanical clock is understandable. But as with many things, you get what you pay for. A $40 box clock with a Chinese movement may seem like a deal, but when it fails in six months and can’t be fixed, the true cost becomes clear.

I must admit that in my early days of clock collecting and repair, when I was still on the learning curve, I dabbled in these inexpensive clocks, knowing that if the movement wasn’t repairable, I could simply throw it away without feeling guilty, given how little I had paid for it. I had two, one I gave away, and the other was converted to a quartz movement.

If you’re new to collecting or looking for your first mechanical clock, invest in something that has stood the test of time or comes from a manufacturer with a reputation for quality.

June 10, 2025 9

The awkward task of telling someone the true value of a Common Clock

People often ask me about the value of their mechanical clock(s), but the reality is, that many of them turn out to be either common mantel clocks, clocks made in China, or clocks that have little resale value. Of course, there is the odd gem!

Expressing that the clock may not be worth as much as they believe it to be becomes a struggle for me. When I receive a letter from someone inquiring about the value of a recently obtained clock, I make an effort to provide an honest and straightforward response and so, I have come up with a 6-step guide on how to navigate the conversation with kindness and sensitivity.

Daniel Dakota mechanical wall clock, made in China — _{Daniel Dakota wall clock, many of which are found in flea markets today}

Determining the worth of a cherished family clock can be a very delicate matter. Say you have a good grasp of the value of antique/vintage clocks, and know what is desirable/collectible and what is not, you may find yourself in a position where you need to gently convey that a clock, particularly one treasured by a friend or family member, might be a clock with limited value.

How to navigate the conversation:

Acknowledge Its Sentimental Value: Start the conversation by recognizing the sentimental value attached to the clock. Express genuine appreciation for the emotional connection and especially the loving memories it holds. By starting with acknowledgment, you create a foundation for understanding.
Focus on Quality and Craftsmanship: Gradually steer the conversation towards the qualities that might contribute to a clock’s value. Emphasize the significance of craftsmanship, materials, and authenticity. Share your admiration for well-crafted clocks, and express curiosity about the specific details of the clock in question.
Share General Knowledge about clocks: Provide some general information about various types of clocks, highlighting the differences between common mass-produced clocks and those created with precision. Frame the conversation as an opportunity to share learning and avoid any language that might devalue their clock.
Suggest an Expert Appraisal: Float the idea of seeking a professional appraisal for a more accurate understanding of the clock’s value. Assure them that appraisers can offer insights into the historical significance and craftsmanship of the clock. This shifts the focus towards an objective evaluation.
Be Empathetic: Maintain empathy throughout the conversation. Acknowledge the emotional attachment and the significance the clock holds within their family. Reassure them that your intention is not to diminish its importance but to provide a comprehensive understanding.
Reframe the conversation: Encourage them to consider alternative perspectives on the clock’s worth, such as its role as a family heirloom, a beautiful piece of nostalgia, or an interesting decoration with a unique story. Highlight that the value of a clock is subjective and can vary based on individual preferences.

Daniel Dakota time and strike wall clock — _{Inexpensive Chinese-made wall clock, circa 1960s}

Navigating discussions about the value of a cherished family clock requires a delicate balance of empathy and information. Approaching the conversation with kindness helps maintain their emotional connection to the clock, acknowledging its sentimental significance within the family without being judgemental.

By gently introducing the notion that its financial value might not align with its emotional worth, you pave the way for a greater understanding.

Remember, a cherished clock is more than just its monetary value. It holds special meaning in the form of family history and sentimental connections, making it a priceless part of one’s heritage.

January 19, 2024

Tempus Fugit Time Company announces expanded capacity

I am very excited and I hope you are as well to learn that the Tempus Fugit Time Company is pleased to announce the opening of its latest factory in Gackle, North Dakota.

The factory in Shanghai China was unable to meet the increased demand for clocks which inevitably meant expansion into North America.

The decision to switch from quartz clocks back to mechanical clocks was a difficult one for the Tempus Fugit Time Company but necessary in view of the pent-up demand for clocks with gears, springs, levers, and other noises.

Tempus Fugit Clock Co. — _{Timeville, Ontario factory} _{and company headquarters}

The new and yet-to-be-released Tempest line of clocks will represent the highest quality of clocks made by Tempus Fugit and they will be crafted by noted case designers Woody Bezel and Ben Doolum.

Unfortunately, the Fugit Battery Factory, a major supplier of quartz batteries is a victim of the expansion and will be shut down permanently, however, there will be no reduction in staffing as a result.

The factory and company headquarters in Timeville, Ontario will continue in operation producing the Grandnephew Clock (shown above) so popular among young people. Although the Timeville factory is managed by founders Seth Wheeler and Thomas Dealer they will shift their efforts to the expansion into North Dakota.

“It is time for a change and not a minute too soon”, said Mr. Wheeler. “Although it is April Fools Day we believe expansion into North America is the right decision for our company as we move into the 22nd century”, added Mr. Dealer.

April 1, 2022

Daniel Dakota wall clock has stopped – why fix it?

A Chinese-made vintage Daniel Dakota time and strike 31-day wall clock purchase will not set you back a lot of money. These clocks are everywhere and they were made in the many thousands. I would bet that 99% of them have never seen the inside of a clock repair shop. They have cheap movements which seem to defy death, they last forever or end up unceremoniously thrown in the trash bin.

The clock, which I bought in a junk shop some years ago, was gifted to a family member but it has been returned to me, not working; the boomerang effect. The family member has no desire to have it returned to them and I do not have a problem with that. Instead, I gifted them a much more refined German Schatz chiming bracket clock.

Chinese-made clocks have a design lifespan of about 20-25 years. They were never intended to be passed down as family heirlooms

Schatz W3 in a custom made case — Schatz W3

On online for-sale sites, these things are ubiquitous. Sellers believe these vintage clocks are worth something judging by the silly asking prices on online for-sale sites. On any given day, you will find dozens on eBay ranging in price from $30 to $160 and they will find new homes for the unsuspecting. Most are quartz but there is the odd mechanical one.

This is a Chinese-made clock. Most Chinese (or Korean) clocks of the 1960s have inexpensively manufactured movements with thin plates, thin stamped wheels, plenty of clips and washers, long dangerous mainsprings, and have every component made with cost-saving in mind. During the 1960s and 70s, there was a strong demand for mechanical clocks and Chinese manufacturers stepped in to fill it. These are clocks made for the masses and were good sellers in their day but have a design lifespan of about 20-25 years. They are tough but were never intended to be passed down as family heirlooms.

The 31-day run times mean that the mainsprings are very powerful and if they let go they are sure to do some damage not only to the moving parts inside but to anyone handling them. It is one reason why many in the clock repair business stay away from them.

However, they are surprisingly strong runners and will provide service for years while quite worn. If they stop, the cost of repair is far more than they are worth. When they stop, quartz movements often replace mechanical movements or the clock is simply thrown out.

If you have worked on an English or German time and strike movement most everything will be familiar to you in terms of wheel placement since the Chinese copied existing designs. Some components like the fly and the star wheel are designed differently but their function is the same, of course.

What is very different are the dangerous twist-on mainspring barrels housing long, powerful mainsprings which are not fun to work on.

Why service the movement

Not surprisingly, these clocks can easily be brought back to life if there are no serious issues.

During the course of disassembling a typical Daniel Dakota movement, if I discovered something seriously amiss such as broken teeth, seriously bent arbours/broken pivots or broken mainsprings, I would stop immediately. There is no point in expending time, energy and expense on a throw-away movement. There is no source of parts for these things and if the type of repair offsets its value, there is no point. If everything looks relatively good, servicing makes sense and the only cost would be time and perhaps a bushing or two.

Let’s look at this movement

This came to me as a non-working movement. The movement is very dirty, the plates are tarnished, but the wheels run relatively free, the gear teeth have little wear, the pivot holes look good, the mainsprings are strong and none of the components appear to be damaged.

A deeper dive revealed some interesting issues. Once I took the movement apart I discovered two key trouble spots, a bent escape wheel pivot, and a bent flywheel pivot. It is a wonder that it even ran but no surprise that it finally stopped.

Bent pivots can be repaired. All the lantern pinions are in excellent condition, with no worn wheel teeth and the mainsprings are strong. There were punch marks around several pivot holes, likely done while the movement was assembled.

Repairing a bent pivot and cleaning the movement

Care must be taken when addressing bent pivots. If the pivots break while attempting to straighten them there is not much point in going any further on a cheap clock unless practice in repivoting is the goal.

A lathe comes in handy but a portable electric drill will do. Place the wheel into the jaws and hand spin it to check the direction to bend it. Using a staking tool rather than a hammer means you can apply very little pressure, checking progress with each gentle bit of persuasion. It is soft steel and will take a little bending but don’t get carried away.

Both the escape wheel and the fly pivots were straightened. All other pivots were inspected and everything looked good. Now on to cleaning the movement in the ultrasonic machine.

The parts were dried and cleaned but the ultrasonic machine did little to reduce the tarnish on the plates. The movement will function quite well without shiny plates, purely a matter of aesthetics.

Once the plates were cleaned and pegged out I could see very little wear. The only enlarged pivot hole is the second wheel time-side, backplate which is not surprising since there is a heavy load on this wheel from the mainspring. This required a 1.50mm bushing with an OD of 3.50mm.

Reassembly

Seeing no other bushings holes requiring remediation, the movement is re-assembled.

Once the bottom nuts for the barrels and second wheel and cannon wheel are put on and tightened, the time side wheels are secured and the corner nut is next. Once that section of the movement is in place, the strike side wheels are coaxed into position. This is where a pivot locator is your best friend. The pivots are thicker than those found on a typical German movement but can still be bent through rough handling.

Last, are the levers, snail, rack, and hour wheel on the outside of the front plate.

Final thoughts

Was the exercise worth it? Of course! I have worked on dozens of similar (English, German) types of time and strike movements I always find something that adds to my learning. These movements are easy to work on, are surprisingly strong runners when in good order and presented no issues during servicing.

In total, it cost me my time plus one bushing. Would I send this off to a shop for repair? Of course not! Why pay $250 or more to repair a clock that is worth almost nothing on a good day but for sentimental reasons it may be important for some.

Why fix it? To sell it, of course! I’ve had it a few years and enjoyed it, a family member has had it for a while and enjoyed it and now it is time to pass it on.

March 4, 2021

Variables that affect antique and vintage clock prices?

Canadian made Arthur Pequegnat Simcoe mantel clock, circa 1916, $300 (in Canada)

There are many types and styles of clocks and dozens of manufacturers. If you are a collector you know exactly what you are looking for and have a good idea of its approximate value. If you are not an “expert”, selecting an antique clock can be a daunting task. But this article is not about helping you find that special clock. It is about the variables that affect clock prices in 2021.

Over the years I have learned the value of many antique and vintage clocks. When I come across an interesting clock on an online for sale site or in an antique store I have several questions in mind. Is there anything special about it? When was it made? Is it rare? Is it historically significant? Is the price too high or too low and why? How much work must I put into it if it clearly needs TLC and will the seller accept a lower price? That said, I am prepared to walk away at any point.

For example, E. Ingraham clocks are common and can be had for very little money but the more desirable Ingrahams of the 1860s and 70s are those that Elias Ingraham had a hand in designing. The Ingraham Grecian is an attractive example of a clock that was designed in a period of American clock manufacturing where dappearance and uniqueness mattered.

Condition is important. One look at the case will tell me how well it was cared for. In my experience, it is pretty rare to find a clock that has been professionally serviced and many where a previous owner applied their limited skills to get it running. However, if you have the skills to service the movement and are handy at restoration, there are certainly bargains to be found.

If acquiring antique and vintage clocks is something you enjoy but have no knowledge of clock repair, the cost of servicing must be factored into the price particularly if you want it to run reliably.

Let’s assume that you are looking for an authentic antique or vintage clock that has not been altered in any way save for minor cosmetic touch-ups. What factors influence the price you pay for a clock today?

one-weight Vienna wall clock — Miniature one-weight Vienna regulator wall clock, unsigned, circa 1870, in the $400 range

Here is a list of factors I would consider in making your next purchase and why you would pay more for some clocks and less for others.

Variables that affect clock prices today

Wall clocks generally command higher prices than mantel clocks, the exceptions are Asian wall clocks and the like that have little value.
Most mantel clocks less than 100 years old have little value.
Clocks that come from a prominent collection that are well cared for and in excellent condition are more desirable.
Demand in your local area affects price; Canadian-made clocks are sought after in Canada whereas the same clocks are almost worthless in the US.
Weight-driven clocks are more desirable than spring-driven clocks. The exception is the modern weight-driven grandfather clock whose value has plummeted in recent years.
Condition is key, a clock in excellent condition is worth more than one in poor condition or with parts missing.
Running clocks are worth (generally) more than non-running clocks.
A recently serviced clock is worth more than one that has either not been serviced in a long time or never serviced.
The same clock may be worth more than others that are the same or similar if it has special provenance i.e. a well-documented tall case clock that came from Grover Cleveland’s home.
A clock with a replacement movement is termed a marriage by collectors. Marriages are worth far less than an authentic clock but acceptable by some collectors.
Any clock that has had its mechanical movement replaced with a quartz one is worthless.
One of the largest factors in a clock’s value is the manufacturer. Many from Sessions Clock Co. are rather ordinary and relatively inexpensive but some Seth Thomas Sonora Chime clocks, for example, have good value.
Age does not always equate to a higher price. A clock that is 170 years old is not necessarily worth more than one that is 50 years old.
Mechanism type; double and triple fusee clocks and pinwheel regulators are worth more than open-spring-driven mantel clocks or modern tall-case weight-driven clocks.
Some clockmakers are more desirable than others; generally speaking a German-made Winterhalder and Hofmeier mantel clock is worth more than a similar American-made Gilbert mantel clock. Assuming both are in the same condition, an unsigned four-glass French clock has a greater value than a branded American crystal regulator.

Scottish tall case clock, circa 1848 for under $300

The Law of Supply and demand and the 30-hour ogee

The law of supply and demand is the theory that explains the interaction between the sellers of a resource and the buyers for that same resource. Generally, as price increases, people are willing to supply more and demand less and vice versa when the price falls. At the end of the day, the clock market is very unpredictable. Clocks on eBay that go for $400 one month are $100 the next.

An interesting example is a 30-hour ogee clock. Prior to the popularity of online auction sites 30-hour ogee clocks (below) were commanding prices in the hundreds of dollars. Antique stores had them in the $250-400 range and when the internet came along supply increased and prices dropped.

George H. Clark 30 hour Ogee, circa 1860

I have paid low prices for some of my clocks but higher for what I call special clocks that are not necessarily rare but are made with some level of precision or unique in design.

Seth Thomas Regulator #2, circa 1925, $800-1000 range

Closing thoughts

In commercial transactions, the principle that the buyer purchases at his own risk in the absence of an express warranty is termed Caveat Emptor, or let the buyer beware. In the clock world, buyers have little or no recourse if those goods turn out to be defective, misrepresented, or broken. The best of luck trying to get your money back if you are a successful bidder on an online auction site and your package arrives in pieces.

Selecting and purchasing an authentic antique mechanical clock can be a daunting task but it can also be a very rewarding experience.

March 1, 2021

Tick Talk Tuesday #22 – parts for my Daniel Dakota clock

Tick-Talk Tuesday is about the letters and comments I have received from you, the reader, concerning your clock, issues you might have had, challenges you face or a clock you would like me to profile and my responses to your questions with advice on your particular clock concern. For those comments and questions that stump even me, I consult within my clock circles for the best possible answer

Converted quartz Daniel Dakota wall clock

DW writes, “Hello, my name Is DW I need to know where I can purchase some parts for my Daniel Dakota Grandfather Clock. If you know of any store or hardware place please let me know. Thanks in advance”.

My reply, “Hi DW and thanks for writing. There are a number of clock suppliers in Canada and the US but unfortunately none carry parts for Daniel Dakota clocks. The reason is that these clocks have a limited life and once they stop they are often discarded. They are also difficult to repair because no replacement parts are available and few clock repairers will accept them for servicing.

You may find someone in your area that will fix your clock but if not you have three other options. Option one is to find a replacement movement. Option two is to attempt the repair yourself and option three is to convert your clock to a quartz movement.”

December 29, 2019

Inferior Craftsmanship and Materials

Lack of Longevity and Serviceability

Knock-Off Designs and Deceptive Marketing

They Undermine the Clockmaking Tradition

Brands and Labels to Approach with Caution

What to Buy Instead

Final Thoughts

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Chinese-made clocks have a design lifespan of about 20-25 years. They were never intended to be passed down as family heirlooms

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