curvy clock repair

Had loads of problems getting the clock backlights to work - tried new bulbs but only one out of three ever worked,so........ I traced the connection on the circuit board and found that 2 were defective. What to do now, Ebay or breakers yards? Too expensive,

To dismantle the clocks I carefully removed all of the screws from the back, followed by the small black ones holding the clock faces. Then, firmly but gently pulled the hands off (do not lever them).

Stripped down an old modem lead (phone wire will do) and carefully soldered short pieces of wire between appropriate connectors (check with a multimeter on basic Ohms setting for continuity).

Then tried with the bulbs again,and......perfect. Then I found some LED bulbs but they were type 509 I believe and a bit too big. Enlarged the hole in the circuit board with a Dremel and wedged them in. Tested for operation and then dabbed a bit of superglue to hold them followed by a little silicone to seal.

Yes i know they are almost permanent, but I already tried to destroy one by soldering wires to it and failed.

Now have blue LED backlights fully functional. Very pleased with a very cheap fix. Sorry no pics as I was single handed and have already re mounted the clocks.