It took as long to make as it takes to gestate a human, but the Clickspring open-frame mechanical clock is finally complete. And the results are spectacular.
If you have even a passing interest in machining, you owe it to yourself to watch the entire 23 episode playlist. The level of craftsmanship that [Chris] displays in every episode, both in terms of the clock build and the production values of his videos is truly something to behold. The clock started as CAD prints glued to brass plates as templates for the scroll saw work that roughed out the frames and gears. Bar stock was turned, parts were threaded and knurled, and gear teeth were cut. Every screw in the clock was custom made and heat-treated to a rich blue that contrasts beautifully with the mirror polish on the brass parts. Each episode has some little tidbit of precision machining that would make the episode worth watching even if you have no interest in clocks. For our money, the best moment comes in episode 10 when the bezel and chapter ring come together with a satisfying click.
We feature a lot of timekeeping projects here, but none can compare to the Clickspring clock. If you’re still not convinced, take a look at some of our earlier coverage, like when we first noticed [Chris]’ channel, or when he fabricated and blued the clock’s hands. We can’t wait for the next Clickspring project, and we know what we’re watching tonight.
Fantastic video series, definitely worth watching through. It’s not super technical, but it’s a beautiful project and it’s mesmerizing to watch.
There appears to be no moment a tool is used in this series that is unsatisfying.
I wish reddit style thumbs up were available. Because I would click the hell out of a thumbs up right now.
because the escapement is my second favourite mechanism only to the differential, I skipped straight to episode 21, clear and easy to understand with good oration, definitely on my playlist…
I was actually a bit sad to see the final video in the series arrive, as I have been following it almost since the beginning and have seen most of the episodes multiple times.
I hope he comes up with another project that is equally as captivating. No matter what he comes up with, I’ll be watching every moment of it with rapt attention.
Indeed it was a very pretty build at every level.
Watched this from the start. It’s been educational and entertaining… and frustrating. Chris makes it look way too easy!
I am utterly impressed with the quality of the finished product… there are times I seriously think I’m looking at an animation of a model due to the lack of imperfections.
Astounding. Watching the final video alone will give you a complete understanding of the step up from “precise” to “exquisite”.
Having had a small conversation with Chris via email, I know he was looking at the Antikythera Mechanism as a potential for a follow-up. I really hope he does that because that thing will be a work of art
..or maybe one of Harrison’s Longditude clocks…?
Or a Babbage difference engine perhaps?
Looking at his work here, if there’s anyone who could hit build a difference engine, it’s him.
That would be incredible! I sure hope he does, as it would be amazing to see how it gets built and constructed, especially by a master artist like Chris.
Hopefully it wouldn’t take as long. :-p
Even a replica Kurta would be a hell of a thing.
Time after time, Hackaday comes up with another great story to satisfy hour needs.
You’re trying to tick me off. I oughta clock you one.
Second to none.
Nice work. Brass plate has become CRAZY expensive… I wonder what the materials cost was.
Has anyone else switched to watching every youtube video at 2x speed to save time (or consume double the content) ?
Sometimes, but clickspring is too good for that – I watch it to relax and enjoy. But for vids where I only want info, 2x is great.
Two questions spring to mind: 1) what happens to the clock now? 2) How much is it worth?
1) It tells the time
2) Unless he auctions it for charity, consider it priceless.
Pure engineering porn.
One of those few posts where everyone in the comments section actually agreed on the post!!
Of late it has become a debate section with some users criticizing the quality of the posts.
Of course, the videos themselves are pure workmanship porn!! Its simply a testament to his work!!
I am waiting to see what he comes up with next.
staggering dedication