Hard Drive Desk Clock

Convert an old harddrive from a decktop PC into a cool looking desk clock.



Locate an old hard drive.
I found one with actual screws securing the case and circuit board.
I found one with actual screws securing the case and circuit board.
Purchase a clock mechanism with a 3/4 inch long shaft from a hobby store.

Remove the case and circuit board.
I could not remove all the screws, so I was forced to pry off the cover.
Be carefull not to damage the insides.
I could not remove all the screws, so I was forced to pry off the cover.
Be carefull not to damage the insides.

The clock required a 1/4 inch hold for mounting.
You need to remove the hard drive platters and spindle.
I used a T6 torx wrench to remove the 3 screws.
You need to remove the hard drive platters and spindle.
I used a T6 torx wrench to remove the 3 screws.

Expand the hole to 1/4 inch in the case where the spindle was located.

Use a hammer and small phillips screwdriver to pound out the rod in the spindle's middle.
Use a hammer and a larger screwdriver to pound out the ball bearing sleve.
When both are removed the hold that's left is 1/4 inch.
Use a hammer and a larger screwdriver to pound out the ball bearing sleve.
When both are removed the hold that's left is 1/4 inch.

Replace the hard drive platters and spindle.


Insert clock mechanism thru hold from the back and secure with included nut.
Attach the hands and insert a battery.
Attach the hands and insert a battery.


To make it more to my liking I replaced the second hand with a red one and used the F3, F9, and F12 keys from an old laptop keyboard.