Bar Billiards Table Timer/Clock (Jan 2026)

To my knowledge there are two main types of mechanical clocks fitted to tables, the French version and the British version. I’m initially starting with the British version which is considered the more reliable and I would say more durable of the two.

Most clocks in existance are 50+ years old and still going, but they do wear out or get abused by people pulling the mechanism and letting it fly back un-controlled. This leads to broken or stretch springs, and sheared off gear teeth etc.

There are no new parts available, and limited spares if you can find them.

My plan is to initially make a new timing mechanisum and then to make a complete clock including the castings.

I’ve already made a pattern to make a mould from so I can then cast main aluminium body, and I’ve also made many of the gears and pinions. 

My first new timer mechanism. Just a few hours work involved.

Quite a common problem with old clocks is bent gears or missing teeth. Often caused by neglect and user misuse by pulling the mechanism too hard. 

Machining a new pinion on the mill, and wire cutting a new gear on my new wire EDM machine.

New gears, pinions, and clutch ratchet.

Depthing Gauge for setting up gear mesh and shaft axial spacing.

I didn’t have a depthing guage and couldn’t find one with
large enough capacity so I had to make one.