Has anyone shortened the MTH clock?

You might want to just try the Atlas O clock if you're after a more scale looking one. Even if you shorten the pole, the face of the clock looks like it would be about 5 scale feet across, not to mention the base is as wide as your sidewalk. 

Also check ebay for the Lionel scale clock, about 1/2 size of the MTH version. The MTH clock would look good on a standard gauge layout. The one thing about Lionel's version is it has to be wound, it not battery powered.

I'd double check on the Altas clock - nowhere does it state it's operating.

-Greg

I don't think shortening the MTH clock is will work out since the diameter of the clock itself is too large.  That leaves you with the Atlas clock and the Lionel clock.  Both are closer to O scale, although the Lionel is a little large.  The Lionel clock has an actual working movement (battery powered) but is not illuminated while the Atlas clock is illuminated but does not keep time.  Your choice.

You're right. I double checked, the winding stem fooled me, it is battery powered, not wound.

Thanks guys. I will look at the Lionel clock.

That clock may look more at home in a town square park setting.