JimboZA:
Attached is a pic of my proof-of-concept finger based on ndrplz's video.I was surprised at how much force it takes to curl the finger: servo sounded like it was straining and was drawing about half an amp.
I'm very happy you took the idea 
To curl all the five fingers, I used this servo:
http://www.servocity.com/html/hs-645mg_ultra_torque.html
It's quite a good and powerful RC servo! (I never tested how much current does it draw, actually)
The idea of the electric clamps is good...
Also, can I ask you what kind of material the base is? Looks like a stone, but I think must be some kind of wood... 