1. Voltage Output: Quartz clocks are designed to run specifically on 1.5 volts, the standard output of an alkaline battery. Some battery types, like rechargeable NiMH or NiCd cells, may discharge a voltage as low as 1.2 volts when under load, likely causing a quartz clock to run slowly or not at all.
2. Discharge Curve: Different types of batteries have different discharge curves. Alkaline batteries maintain a very stable voltage for most of their life, then drop off sharply at the end. In contrast, some batteries have a more gradual voltage decline. Quartz clocks will not function correctly as the battery voltage falls below a certain threshold, which can occur more rapidly with batteries not designed for steady, low power devices.
3. Internal Resistance: Some batteries have higher internal resistance, which can affect their ability to deliver the necessary power, especially in low drain devices like quartz clocks. This resistance can lead to a voltage drop under load, causing the clock to lose time or stop.
4. Chemical Composition: The chemical makeup of a battery affects its voltage, capacity, and discharge profile. For example, zinc-carbon batteries, while nominally 1.5 volts, may not provide a consistent enough voltage for precision devices due to their poorer performance and shorter lifespan.
5. Quality and Brand Variations: Not all batteries are created equal. Lower quality batteries, even if they are the correct type, may not deliver their stated voltage or maintain it consistently over time. This variation can result from differences in manufacturing quality, storage conditions before use, or simply the brand's technology.

High quality, high energy alkaline batteries are the only solution for quartz clocks, as they are designed to offer the consistent voltage and long life needed. Ensure the battery is correctly inserted according to the '+' and '-' indicators in the battery compartment. It sounds simple, but reversing the polarity or a loose fit can lead to performance issues. A firm and correct placement is key.

Note: Even if an old battery works in another device, it might not power your clock. It may be the wrong type, or depleted below necessary threshold to provide the specific voltage for a quartz movement.

These recommendations aren't meant to undermine your efforts or suggest you haven't already attempted to rule out using the wrong type of battery. Rather, they're based on our extensive knowledge in the manufacture of millions of clocks over decades, and often receiving clocks with batteries that are nearly depleted or unsuitable brand/type. We're focusing on this common resolution first, to save you the inconvenience of packing up and returning your clock, which we understand can be quite a task.

We find that in most cases, a fresh new, high quality high power alkaline battery resolves the matter.