52mm Time Clock for Type 1, Chrome Bezel

OVERVIEW

Elevate the interior aesthetic of your vintage Volkswagen with the EMPI 52mm Time Clock featuring a stunning polished chrome bezel. This Smiths-style timepiece is more than just a functional instrument; it is a nod to the golden era of automotive design, specifically tailored for the air-cooled enthusiast who demands both accuracy and period-correct styling. Whether you are performing a full factory restoration on a 1960s Beetle or building a custom weekend cruiser, this clock fills that empty 52mm dash hole with sophistication. The high-contrast black face and crisp white numbering ensure that you can keep track of time during those long coastal drives, while the chrome bezel provides a mirror-like finish that perfectly complements factory trim and other auxiliary gauges in your cockpit.

Engineering excellence is at the heart of this EMPI instrument, designed to integrate seamlessly into any 12-volt electrical system. Unlike modern digital clocks that look out of place in a classic Type 1, this analog unit maintains the soul of your VW while utilizing modern internal movements for reliable timekeeping. The 52mm (2 1/16 inch) diameter is the industry standard for air-cooled Volkswagens, making it a "drop-in" upgrade for most aftermarket dash panels, radio block-off plates, or center consoles. By choosing this EMPI time clock, you are investing in a piece of hardware that bridges the gap between classic Smiths heritage and modern manufacturing durability, ensuring your dashboard looks complete and professional for years to come.

FITMENT

This 52mm time clock is designed for universal fitment in any vehicle with a 12-volt system and a standard 2 1/16 inch gauge hole, but it is specifically curated for the following Volkswagen models:

• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle: 1946 through 1979 (All models)
• Volkswagen Super Beetle: 1971 through 1979
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1955 through 1974
• Volkswagen Type 2 Bus / Transporter: 1950 through 1979
• Volkswagen Type 3 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback): 1961 through 1973
• Volkswagen Thing (Type 181): 1973 through 1974
• Custom Applications: Ideal for Dune Buggies, Sand Rails, and Manx-style kits using 52mm gauge pods.

SPECS

• Brand: EMPI / Smiths Style Heritage Series
• Part Number: 14-1114-0
• Gauge Diameter: 52mm (2 1/16 inches)
• Operating Voltage: 12 Volt DC
• Bezel Material: High-Quality Polished Chrome
• Face Style: Black Face with White Analog Numerals and Hands
• Illumination: Internal backlighting for night-time visibility
• Mounting Hardware: Includes U-bracket, studs, and knurled nuts for secure installation
• Terminal Type: Blade style connectors for easy wiring

PRO TIPS

1. Constant Power is Essential

When wiring your new EMPI time clock, it is critical to remember that this instrument requires a constant 12-volt power source to keep accurate time. Do NOT wire the main power lead to a "switched" ignition source, or the clock will stop every time you turn off the engine. We recommend tapping into the "Battery" (Terminal 30) side of your fuse box. Always use an inline fuse if you are not running through a protected circuit on the factory fuse block to prevent damage to the internal clock movement in the event of a short. Don''t forget to ground the gauge properly to the chassis to ensure stable operation.

2. Perfecting the Dash Cutout

If you are installing this clock into a dash that does not already have a 52mm hole, precision is key. Use a high-quality 2 1/16 inch hole saw designed for metal. Before drilling, apply masking tape over the area to prevent the drill bit from wandering and scratching your paint. Once the hole is cut, use a small round file or deburring tool to smooth the edges. This ensures the gauge sits perfectly flush and prevents the sharp metal edges from cutting into the gauge housing or wiring over time due to engine vibration. A clean hole results in a professional, factory-installed look.

3. Synchronization with Interior Lighting

To get the most out of the vintage aesthetic, wire the internal illumination bulb of the clock to your existing headlight switch (Terminal 58). This allows the clock face to light up in sync with your speedometer and other dashboard instruments when you pull the light switch to the first or second position. If your VW is equipped with a dimmer function on the light switch, this wiring setup will allow you to adjust the clock''s brightness along with the rest of your dash lights. This attention to detail is what separates a standard build from a show-winning interior restoration.