Steampunk Table Clock

Welcome, Lego fans, to this, the culmination of several years of tinkering in the basement with Lego Technic. Many hours were spent finding all the right peices, experimenting with different designs, looks and mechanisms, and it is now, finally, finished and ready for your votes (please and thank you!). I've given it a steampunk look, which I hope you enjoy, but the real challenge with this build was getting a functional clock with a second, minute, and hour hand that keeps good time, and yet remains small enough to realistically be put in a box for a Lego set. This, in my own, humble opinion, would represent the ultimate Lego Technic set.

I've uploaded some videos that show the clock in action. Please have a look. The real magic of this clock is seeing all those moving parts actually move:

Video 1: the clock itself. You can see the weight that drives the gear train. The weight of the battery pack provides a constant, steady force to drive the gear train. I've built the climber such that when it reaches the bottom of the chain, the motor switches on, then climbs itself back to the top again. Then, the motor shuts off, and the only sound is the ticking of the clock. The motor only runs for a small fraction of the time, and the clock will run for many days before the batteries ever run out:

Video 2: the timer, which allows it to keep accurate time. The longer the pendulum, the slower it swings. The 'escapement mechanism' is the term for the connection between the central timing gear and the teeth on the pendulum. These teeth ensure that as the pendulum swings, the gear only turns a fraction before the other tooth stops it again. The force from the weight also gives the pendulum a small 'push' to keep it going, first for a few seconds, then minutes, then hours... and finally, with this final version, many days. The escapement is deep inside the clock, so the video shows the escapement mechanism alone, 'pulled out' of the clock if you will.

Video 3: the display. The face itself is studs-not-on-top, pleasing shape. The hands each turn around a central axle. Lego gear ratios made it a little bit of work to make a compact gearbox such that each time the second hand sweeps around, the minute hand completes 1/60 of a rotation, and each time the the minute hand completes a full rotation, the hour hand turns 1/12 of a turn. The video shows an older face, but the final gearbox design. Here, the second hand is red, the minute hand is green, and the hour hand is yellow to show those fractional rotations:

The Steampunk Table Clock stands out in any collection, appealing to both Lego enthusiasts and steampunk aficionados. Its unique design and functionality make it a centerpiece that sparks conversations and admiration.

Once assembled, this clock is more than just a model—it’s a functional piece of art. Its accurate timekeeping and stunning design make it perfect for display in your home or office, blending form and function seamlessly. The decorative handle has been designed to easily support the full weight of the clock and make it easy to transport this build to any spot in your home for decoration, education, and inspiration.

Building the Steampunk Table Clock is an invitation to explore creativity and innovation. It’s a reminder of the endless possibilities that come with combining imagination and engineering. Each piece, each gear, and each cog is a step towards a masterpiece that is both visually and mechanically captivating.

Looking for the perfect gift for a Lego lover or steampunk enthusiast? Look no further. The Steampunk Table Clock is ideal for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion. It’s a gift that offers not just a build, but an experience and a legacy.

Once completed, the Steampunk Table Clock becomes a statement piece in any room. Its combination of functionality and aesthetic appeal makes it a perfect addition to any home or office. Whether displayed on a desk, a mantle, or a bookshelf, it commands attention and admiration.

The process of building this clock is as rewarding as the finished product. It’s a fantastic way to understand the principles of mechanical movement, gear ratios, and precision engineering. Whether you’re an experienced builder or a curious learner, the Steampunk Table Clock offers valuable insights and hands-on learning.