Measuring the Hand shaft For your movement.

Measuring the hand shaft length on a battery quartz clock movement is essential because it directly determines whether the movement will fit and function properly in your clock. The hand shaft must be long enough to pass through the clock case and any dial or mounting material, while also leaving enough exposed length to securely attach the clock hands. If the shaft is too short, it won’t reach through the case, rendering the movement unusable. On the other hand, if the shaft is excessively long, it may protrude too far, causing the shaft or hands hitting the glass dome on your clock. Ensuring the correct hand shaft length is critical for maintaining the integrity of the clock’s appearance and operation. Diagram A shows the overall length of hand shaft as well as the threaded section of the hand shaft. When measuring you want to make sure you have at least a few threads on the threaded shaft length sticking out pass the face so you will be able to use the mounting nut to secure the movement.

Diagram B will show you the parts required for mounting the clock movement to your clock. Notice the hand shaft length and the minimum requirements for mounting the clock movement

Diagram C

Diagram C shows a cut-a-way of how a movement attaches to the clock movement. So you can see that you will need a few threads sticking pass the face in order to get a brass washer and a hex nut onto the hand shaft in order to hold the movement in place.

How to Measure Your Clock Hand Shaft

Step-by-step setup, battery installation, chime synchronization, and troubleshooting for quartz tubular bell clock movements.

Choosing the correct hand shaft length is critical.

An incorrect measurement is the most common reason replacement movements are returned.

This guide shows you exactly what to measure — and what not to measure.

Tools Needed:

Ruler or caliper
Good lighting
Clock movement removed from the case (recommended)

Step 1: Remove the Hands

Remove the following in order:

Second hand (if present)
Minute hand nut
Minute hand
Hour hand

Set hands aside carefully.

Step 2: Locate the Hand Shaft

On the front of the movement you will see:

A threaded metal shaft
A smooth shoulder behind it
The movement body

⚠️ You will measure ONLY the threaded portion.

Step 3: Measure the Threaded Shaft

Place the ruler at the very tip of the threads
Measure straight back to where the threads end

📏 Do NOT include:

The smooth shoulder
Plastic spacers
The movement housing

Write the measurement down.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Measuring dial thickness only
Measuring the entire shaft including smooth sections
Guessing instead of measuring

Take a photo of the movement front with a ruler visible and contact us before ordering.
We’re happy to help you measure once — instead of shipping twice.

Measure carefully. Order once. Repair with confidence.