Motorcycle Speedometer / Tach Desktop Clock

Convert an old Nippon motorcycle gauge into a clock using these files and a cheap quartz movement
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updated April 6, 2025

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I engine-swapped my KZ200 and the new engine doesn't have a cable tach output, so I pulled the tach apart to make a clock.

A lot of 70s and 80s Japanese motorcycles use Nippon Seiki instruments, and of those a lot are the same size. If you find one with a chrome strip holding the back together and the front face is about 82mm, odds are these files will work. I used this video to guide me through disassembling the gauge: 

 

In addition to the gauge, you'll need:

  • 2x 6mm M3 bolts
  • 2x 40mm M3 bolts
  • 4x M3 nuts
  • A wall clock quartz movement with short hands. (I used this one as I struggled to find a kit with a single movement and short hands: https://a.co/d/2lgw2jX )
  • A drill with a couple bits to slowly step up to the movement shaft size (unfortunately I do not remember what the final bit size was)

Assembly is fairly straight forward. I recommend securing the movement to its mount before adding the faceplate and hands. I was able to reuse the original tach hand as a second hand with a touch of glue, but I cannot promise that'll work for everyone. When securing the movement do not tighten the 6mm screws all of the way down or your risk cracking the movement.

Printed with PLA. Print settings:

  • 0.2mm height, 0.4mm nozzle
  • 2 perimeters
  • 15% infill

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