I am writing this guide for all the people out there who have and use, or collect what are called "Motion Clocks". The two most most well known makers of these types of clocks are United Clock Corp. and Mastercrafters. Some examples are shown below.

Model 564 Motion Fireplace Clock by United Clock Corp.

Model 419 Fireplace Clock by United Clock Corp.

Mastercrafters Model 551 Swing

Mastercrafters Model 272

Some of these clocks have a motion feature such as a swinging pendulum, rotating balance weights, waterfall and stream action. Some have only the mechanical feature and some have both the mechanical and illuminated features.

Both companies manufactured motion clocks incorporating a small base, clear or white light bulb. The bulbs look very similar to a small Christmas tree bulb. There is a HUGE difference between them. To get to the point, the original bulbs supplied with the clocks were no more than 7 watts and the bulb burned fairly cool. A old style small base Christmas bulb, turned on for only a few minutes, burns hot enough to melt the skin on your fingers if you were to try to unscrew it without letting it cool first. I remember as a kid, around Christmas time, the pain of touching the lights on the tree. OUCH!!!

The point here, if you can't guess by now, is this:

DO NOT USE A CHRISTMAS TREE BULB IN THESE CLOCKS!

I have seen many Ebay descriptions saying the clock uses a Christmas tree bulb. The correct bulb to use is a 7 watt night light bulb.

I have many of these types of clocks and have seen the damage done by a bulb that burns too hot. Melted plastic, burned wood, fried wiring, and the worst case - a melted drum. The rotating drum inside the fireplace type clock simulates the flames that you see from the front. A hot bulb can ruin this drum as well as the plastic on the front of the fireplace.

This Model 811 by United uses two bulbs to illuminate the sails and the cabin portholes.

The bottom line is that these clocks can be a fire hazard if not used properly. Old, dry wood and a hot bulb can result in a fire which could not only destroy your clock, but your home too.

If this post helps even one person avoid disaster, it was worth the time to write it!

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