These mechanisms are not available for most consumers, since they are used by clocks such as U.S. Quartz is resistant to factors that could affect frequencies such as temperature changes - this is one of the reasons why crystal mechanisms are often used in the finest watches. Crystal MechanismsĪnyone looking for accuracy should acquire a clock with crystal mechanism, since this type of mechanism is considered as the most accurate. Still, there is a huge market for clocks with a mechanical mechanism, since they are considered as collector's items. Most homeowners will not consider a mechanical clock, mainly because they require a lot more maintenance. The combination of these two things provides a constant motion, enabling the hands on the clock to move (or to change the display). Mechanical MechanismsĪ mechanical mechanism works with a pendulum and a balance wheel. Electric mechanisms are commonly found in digital clocks and braille clocks. The electric clock will use electricity as its main power source, so clocks with an electric mechanism must be connected to a power source.

Once again, we have described each type in more detail below. What Mechanisms Can Be Used in Current-Day Clocks?Ĭlocks can work with a variety of mechanisms, whereof the most common are electric, mechanical, crystal, atomic, and radio. Some talking clocks can also come with a novelty theme, which makes them great gifts for a variety of special occasions. The talking clock is another option for people with impaired vision, but it is certainly used by other people too. To display the time, the braille clock uses raised dots on the dial, which can be touched. Braille ClocksĪs you may have guessed from the name, this type of clock is used by people with impaired vision. Like analogue clocks, the digital clock may come in a twelve-hour or twenty-four-hour format. Numbers are displayed through LCD or LED technology and separated by a colon to indicate hour and minutes. The second most popular clock today has a digital display. Either is beneficial for telling time, so the choice between twelve-hour and twenty-four-hour usually comes down to personal preference. The handles will move around the surface of the clock, enabling you to tell the hour, minutes, and in some cases seconds.Īnalogue clocks can be offered in a twelve-hour and twenty-four-hour format. It is characterised by a surface with numbers and two to three handles to tell the time.

This is the type of clock most people have in their home.

Currently, the main four types of clocks are analogue, digital, braille, and talking clocks. Clocks can be classified under a specific type. When you examined some of the clocks that are being sold today, you may have noticed some crucial differences between them. So, whether you are looking for a functional clock, or simply a clock to use as a decoration, be sure to read through our ultimate guide to clocks below! How Are Different Types of Clocks Classified? The earliest type of clock dates as far back as four thousand years, so it is no surprise that clocks are still one of the most sold household items today.īelow, Spotlight has created a useful guide to clocks. Discover Spotlight's Ultimate Guide to Clocks!

Kitchen wall clocks