I have a JLC Atmos clock at home. I think stating that "I LOVE THIS CLOCK" is an understatement. Its very well made, its strikingly beautiful, and anyone with even a basic knowledge of watches and clocks seems to stop dead in their tracks to check it out. I bought mine on e-bay for about 1K 15 years ago and its been running strong since it arrived. One thing you need to know about these clocks is that parts and service are expensive (its JLC, of course its expensive). As an example, when I bought the clock, the four screws that connect the top part of the frame to the bottom part were dark. The gold plating had somehow worn off (this would explain the price that I paid). I was able to get replacement screws from JLC for over 100 dollars for 4 screws!. Now the clock is perfect.
An interesting feature of this clock is the glass fishtank allowing you to see everything. While the sides are glass, the top is plastic!
My advice, yes, buy it, they are amazing.
As for the dangers in shipping: There is a lever on the bottom of the clock, that lever locks the pendulum. It MUST be locked before thinking about moving this clock or you run the risk of destroying the hairspring ($$). Anyone who has one of these clocks knows that. Also, JLC recommends double boxing these clocks to ship them.. so bubble wrap into a close fit cardboard box, then packing peanuts with that box into another box.
Calibrating the clock takes some time. There is a lever inside the case near the 12 o'clock marker that is used to speed up or slow down the movement. I wind up adjusting this 2X per year (VERY slightly) and thats about it for adjustments. Just be sure to use the spirit level on the bottom (looks like a bullseye) along with the leveling feet (under the case) to make sure the entire clock is perfectly level.
hope this helps..
