
The Atmos clock is a self-winding mechanical clock that harnesses the power of temperature and humidity changes to wind its mainspring. It's a truly innovative timepiece.
The Atmos clock was first invented by Swiss watchmaker John Harwood in 1928. He created it to be a more accurate and reliable alternative to traditional mechanical clocks.
Harwood's design used a chamber that expanded and contracted with temperature changes, turning a small gear that wound the mainspring. This unique mechanism allowed the clock to run for several years without needing to be wound.
How it Works
The Atmos clock is a marvel of innovation that relies on the power of temperature fluctuations to keep ticking. A sealed capsule inside the clock holds a mixture of gas and liquid that expands and contracts with temperature changes.
This movement manipulates the mainspring, allowing the clock to self-wind. The slightest temperature variation will provide days of operation, making it possible for the Atmos clock to run forever, even if left untouched.
A variation of just one degree Celsius guarantees a 48-hour power reserve, giving you a sense of the clock's incredible efficiency. Its economical ring-shaped balance consumes 250 times less energy than a classic wristwatch, making it a remarkable feat of engineering.
A Breath of Innovation
The Atmos clock is a marvel of innovation, and its unique mechanism is what sets it apart from other timepieces. It's powered by the slightest temperature variations, which are then converted into mechanical energy.
This ingenious mechanism is housed in a sealed capsule that contains a mixture of gas and liquid, which expands and contracts with temperature changes. The slightest temperature variation will allow for days of operation.
The Atmos clock requires no winding, electric energy, or human intervention, making it a true self-sustaining timepiece. This is a game-changer for anyone who's ever struggled to keep their watch wound.
A variation of just one degree Celsius guarantees a 48-hour power reserve, which is impressive considering the clock's energy efficiency. Its ring-shaped balance consumes 250 times less energy than a classic wristwatch.
It would take 60 million Atmos clocks to consume the same amount of energy as a 15-watt bulb, giving you an idea of just how economical this clock is. The Atmos clock is a true masterpiece of engineering and design.
Locking the Pendulum
The pendulum on your Atmos clock should be locked when it reaches an extreme swing, i.e. it stops moving. Then move the lever to the right straight away.
To lock the pendulum, you'll need to move the lever under the base at the front of the clock to the right. Moving the lever to the left unlocks the pendulum.
It's essential to lock the pendulum before moving the Atmos clock to prevent serious damage to the movement.
Setting the Time
To set the time on your Atmos clock, you'll need to remove the glass door by pushing down on the gold knob and lifting it out of the case. Be careful not to catch the sides or drop the glass.
It's essential to set the clock using the minute hand only, moving it in a clockwise direction when the pendulum is at an extreme in its swing or locked.
Starting
To start your Atmos clock, make sure it's levelled and the hands are set correctly. This ensures a smooth operation and prevents any damage to the delicate mechanisms.

Set the hands a minute or two in advance before putting the door back in, so the lever can be released at the correct time. This is a crucial step to avoid any issues with the clock's operation.
Once the hands are set, put the door back in and move the locking lever to the left. This will allow the pendulum to start rotating and keep oscillating backwards and forwards.
If the clock was stopped abruptly or accidentally jarred, don't spin the pendulum round by hand - this can damage the suspension spring and the escapement mechanism. Instead, gently move the pendulum in either direction by about half of a complete rotation (180°) using something like the eraser on the end of a pencil.
Mechanical Complexity
The Atmos clock's dial is a masterclass in elegant complexity, featuring a mix of Roman numerals, Arabic numerals, and indexes that never feel overwhelming.
The clock's design is heavily influenced by its Art Deco heritage, giving it a timeless and sophisticated look.
Check this out: Analogue Clock Roman Numerals
A disc indicating the months and a moon phase indicator add a touch of complexity to the dial, making it a true work of art.
Every Atmos clock features a truly complex and fascinating mechanism that showcases precision and intricacy.
The movement is meticulously decorated and finely crafted, blending perfectly with the clock's aesthetics to create a perfect visual harmony.
The Atmos clock winds itself from nothing but air, which is a truly remarkable feature.
It would take 60 million of them to consume the same amount of energy as a 15-watt bulb, making the Atmos a truly exceptional piece of timekeeping mastery.
Exceptional Mechanical Complexity
The Atmos clock is a masterclass in mechanical complexity. Its intricate mechanism is a marvel of engineering, featuring a balance wheel suspended in time from a steel alloy wire thinner than a hair.
This unique design allows the clock to move at a rate of just two vibrations per minute, which is 60 times slower than a traditional clock and 14,400 times slower than a wristwatch.

The Atmos clock winds itself from nothing but air, consuming the same amount of energy as a 15-watt bulb over 60 million cycles. This remarkable feat of timekeeping mastery is a testament to the clock's exceptional mechanical complexity.
Every Atmos clock features a truly complex and fascinating mechanism, meticulously decorated and finely crafted to blend perfectly with the clock's aesthetics.
One Degree of Change for 48-Hour Reserve
The Atmos clock is a marvel of mechanical complexity. It can run for an unlimited period of time, using close to no energy and without the slightest human intervention.
The calibre that powers the Atmos clock is a truly ingenious mechanism. One degree of change in temperature can power it for a 48-hour reserve.
Making adjustments to the Atmos clock is a delicate process. Moving the adjustment lever to the left towards the S/R mark will slow down the clock, while moving it to the right towards the F/A mark will speed it up.

Each graduation mark on the adjustment lever represents about 10 seconds per day. It's best to move the lever a little at a time and wait several days or a week for the clock to adjust.
The Atmos clock is incredibly sensitive to temperature changes. It's what makes it possible for it to run indefinitely without human intervention.
Levelling the
Levelling the clock is crucial for its accuracy.
You'll find a spirit level at the front of the base plate of your Atmos clock, which will help you get it perfectly level.
To level the clock, rotate the two levelling screws up or down until the bubble is completely centred.
These screws are located inside the case at the front of the base of the clock.
The third foot at the rear of the clock is fixed, so you won't be able to adjust it.
If the screws appear tight when lifting the clock, just raise the base slightly with one hand.
If the clock won't level within the maximum adjustment of the screws, use a shim under the appropriate foot.
History and Ownership
The Atmos clock has a rich history, dating back to its invention in 1928 by Jaeger-LeCoultre. The legendary Atmos clock has been redesigned numerous times since its inception.
One of the key features of the Atmos clock is its ability to run for 600 years without needing to be wound or requiring any external power source. This is made possible by a hermetically sealed capsule that reacts to temperature fluctuations, winding the watch without human intervention.
The Atmos clock has been a symbol of Swiss precision and know-how, with notable owners including Presidents and other heads of state. It was often given as an official gift, earning it the nickname "President's Clock."
History of Atmos
The Atmos clock has a rich history that spans nearly a century. It was first invented in 1928 by Jaeger-LeCoultre.
The legendary Atmos clock has been redesigned many times since its inception, always striving to improve its unique feature: an almost "eternal movement" that is powered by the breath of the world.
A masterpiece of engineering, the Atmos clock's delicate movement is designed to be extremely efficient, allowing it to run for many decades.
Notable Owners

The Atmos clock has been a treasured possession for many notable figures throughout history. It's no surprise then that it's become known as the "President's Clock".
The Atmos was given to Presidents and other heads of state as an official gift, showcasing Swiss precision and know-how. This gesture was a symbol of the clock's prestige and value.
England's Queen Elizabeth and Winston Churchill received an Atmos clock, as did France's Charles de Gaulle. These individuals were among the many famous faces to own an Atmos.
Pope John Paul II was also a recipient of an Atmos clock, further solidifying its legacy.
Services and Support
Atmos clock owners have access to a team of dedicated experts who can provide guidance and support.
The Atmos clock's patented self-winding mechanism requires no batteries or manual winding, making it a hassle-free timekeeping solution.
For any questions or concerns, Atmos clock owners can contact their local authorized dealer or the Atmos customer service team directly.
Village Watch Center Services

At Village Watch Center, they sell, repair, and refurbish Atmos clocks. This includes providing estimates for these services.
Due to environmental issues like pollution, a cleaning and inspection of Atmos clocks is recommended every twenty years.
Benefits of Owning
Owning an Atmos clock is a wise investment, and here's why: it's a luxurious timepiece that can last for centuries. You can expect it to run for 600 years without needing a single wind or battery replacement.
One of the biggest advantages of an Atmos clock is its low maintenance. It requires no batteries, no electrical consumption, and the parts don't wear out. This means you can enjoy your clock without worrying about upkeep.
Here are some key benefits of owning an Atmos clock:
- The luxurious look and feel
- It never has to be wound
- It requires no batteries
- It requires no electrical consumption
- The parts do not wear out
- It’s quiet
- It will run for 600 years
- It’s an excellent heirloom
- It’s an investment
Disclaimer: No Guarantee of Fame
Owning an Atmos clock will not make you famous. It's not a magic ticket to stardom, but it will give you something in common with the rich and famous.
These clocks are made with high-quality materials and craftsmanship, making them a wonderful heirloom to pass down to future generations. They can also be a valuable investment.
Atmos clocks are environmentally friendly, which is a great feature for those who care about the planet.
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