Exquisite Miniature Clocks With an Emphasis on Antique and Mid-Century Style
A full display of miniature clocks crafted by Steve Elliott.
Introduction
Steve Elliott is a retired mechanical design engineer with extensive experience designing and fabricating products, production equipment, and tools. He developed a strong foundation in precision engineering and manufacturing, skills that would later influence his work in miniature craftsmanship.
In the early 1990s, Steve began repairing watches and clocks as a hobby, and became a member of the National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors (NAWCC). Through this work, he discovered a particular enjoyment in working with very small mechanical objects, and gradually developed an interest in creating miniatures of his own.
A miniature Elgin Starburst Clock, copied from one that Mr. Elliott owns. Materials: Plastic frame, walnut veneer, brass spikes and face.
2.3×2.3x.3
Note: All dimensions are in inches, WxHxT.
A miniature Art Deco Clock. Materials: Steatite (soapstone) body and base, maple veneer, nickel plated brass, glass ring and back cover, glass.
1.25×1.1x.4
Crafting Functional 1:12 Scale Miniature Clocks
In 2020, Steve conceived the idea of building 1:12 scale clocks that incorporate quartz watch movements, allowing them to function as fully operational timepieces. His miniature clocks are inspired primarily by antique and mid-century clock designs, combining historical aesthetics with modern precision techniques.
An Atomic Wall Clock from the 50s/60s. Materials: Plastic body (PLA), stainless steel rings, plastic “electrons”, brass dial plate.
2x2x.25
Miniature Marble Mantle Clock. Materials: Green marble case with Steatite base, brass bezel, column ends and accent. Plastic movement holder (PLA). Plastic columns (PETG).
1.5×1.1x.65
Steve utilizes SolidWorks for computer-aided design (CAD), Fusion 360 for computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), and GIMP for creating clock dials and graphic elements. When a project requires specialized equipment, he designs and fabricates custom tools to meet the task. He enjoys working with a wide variety of materials and sometimes finds inspiration for new clock designs in the materials at his disposal.
Miniature Clock with Calendar and Moon Phase. Materials: Quarter sawn sycamore with cherry accent strip, steam bent and lacquered. Plastic inner frame, movement, and battery holder (PLA). Glass dial cover and bob window.
1.3×5.5x.9
Tall Case Clock (Grandfather). Materials: Stained Cherry and Rosewood case, brass dial plate, finial, lock plate/key and hinges, glass.
1.75x8x1.2
Today, Steve’s work reflects both his engineering background and his appreciation for horology, resulting in finely crafted miniature clocks that are functional as well as decorative.
Dual Movement Calendar Clock. Materials: Stained cherry case, brass dial plate and hinges, plastic movements & batteries holder (PLA), glass.
1.7×2.8×1
Miniature Banjo Clock. Materials: Black walnut case, brass bezel, finial and side arms. Gold painted twisted rope moldings and corner blocks. Imitation reverse painted glass tablets.
.9×2.75x.4
View more photos of Steve Elliott’s intricate miniature clocks, and some of the tools and equipment he uses to craft them.