CAD drawing of the upper train from the Remontoire Regulator

At the Arcadian Clock Co. we are trying to dispel the quaint image of a clockmaker bent over his workbench laboriously filing smooth the crossings of his wheels. Our jeweler’s saw and watchmaker’s lathe still have a place in the workshop, but they are joined with new machining practices that move horology into the modern age.

The newest addition to our workshop is our CNC milling machine. After drawing a part on the computer and writing a program for machining it, we can press a button and the machine will do the rest (while we anxiously watch to make sure that weeks of work aren’t destroyed by the unexplained random plunge of an end mill.) Along with milling, we use the CNC for engine turning and engraving. The Computer Numeric Control enables us to accurately create shapes, like ovals, that would otherwise be impossible. As a result, instead of using the machine to quickly create simple forms, we feel empowered to make our work even more geometrically complex.

measuring tools

One important advantage for the horologist using modern machining is the increase in accuracy. When we use our Moore jig borer, we can be absolutely certain that the holes we drill are exactly perpendicular and in the right place. Our Hardinge lathe is one of the best engine lathes ever made and enables us to easily turn arbors to exact dimension.

Bridgeport R2E3 CNC milling machine

Moore #1 1/2 jig borer

Vertical knee mill

Okamoto Surface Grinder

Optical Comparator