A couple of months ago, I stumbled across clock inserts.

Wait. What?

Clock inserts are clocks without all the decorative bits that make a clock a “desk clock” or a “kiddie clock” or etc. Just the clock bit.

And I knew I had to build a clock.

I look at that clock and I almost forget the weeks of discarded designs, profanity, and complete and utter despair.

I like my clock, but it was not easy getting there.

Let’s just say that the first (or even thirty-first) idea was not the one I ended up going with… and that I had no idea I’d end up using parts from two different lamps, an eyeglass repair kit, an old necktie, a July 4th “shadowbox” made in China, and a 1:48 scale dollhouse trunk to build my clock.

But I did.

And why, yes, that familiar curved rectangle is what you’re thinking: Altoids tin.

Here’s the inside back of the clock insert — and if you know steam engines, you’ll recognize at least part of what is powering my clock.

On the other side of the interior are the tools needed to recharge the clock.

Yes, that’s the tool to remove the back of the clock and a box of magic. I’d love to take credit for crafting the carved box, but that’s the creation of a lovely lady named Ellen Crane (sadly, she’s no longer selling her marvelous little trunks). But, ho! What sort of magic is this?

The magic energy cell for powering the clock. And the number on the back of the box lid?

Why, the number needed to procure more energy cells from your local “Ye Old-e Wizard-e.”