The structure and operation principle of a novel hybrid excitation claw-pole synchronous machine (HECSM) are introduced. The field-control capability based on the equivalent magnetic circuit method is analyzed. A 3D finite element analysis (FEA) is used to analyze no-load magnetic field distributions, air-gap flux, phase flux linkage and back EMF variation for different field currents. Furthermore, torque characteristics of the HECSM for different field currents are explored. A 2 kW prototype is manufactured, and the experiment for field-control capability is carried out. Experimental results coincide well with those of FEA. The experimental and FEA results indicate that the flux of the HECSM can be adjusted in a wide range with a relatively low field current.