Despite the fact that I am rarely on time no matter how hard I try, I absolutely love clocks. But more in that decorative accessories manner rather than using them for things like not being late. Therefore, here are 12 fabulous clocks, beginning with The Clock Against Which All Other Clocks Shall Be Measured, George Nelson’s iconic multi-colored ball clock. First introduced in 1948, Vitra’s reissue maintains Nelson’s exact design in all of its metal and wood simplicity, and is a must for any mid-century modern collector.
But if I’m starting a collection, the first piece would have to be Nelson’s Petal clock, a rare creation from the mid 1950s. And when my lengthy DIY kitchen remodel is finished? This would be the perfect way to congratulate myself.
Crate & Barrel’s embossed numbers clock makes a simple typographical statement with its monochromatic face and raised numbers, and is wrapped neatly in a stainless-steel frame.
Out of no where a couple of years ago I started getting Chiasso’s catalog, and I immediately fell in love. So while I can’t see myself giving up precious floor space to accommodate an heirloom-quality grandfather clock, this flat, self-adhesive vinyl decal is the next best thing! Simply stick the body and base to the wall and add a clean and classic clock, like Chiasso’s True clock, shown here, and voila! Modern take on the grandfather clock for less than 100 bucks! (And it’s so lightweight!)
Also from Chiasso, this cheeky Princess clock would be excellent in a powder bath, with its black acrylic silhouette of a regal lady in her crown.
Made by the Howard Miller Company, this portable pop-up clock is a smart choice for at home or on the road. With its rounded corners and sleek silver casing, it’s a mod addition to any desktop or nightstand.
Another genius desk-size timekeeper, Resource Revivial’s bike cog desk clock is made from recycled bike parts and is available at Delight.
Available at Lekker Home, Japanese designer Kanae Tsukamoto’s bamboo clock takes natural to a new level thanks to the use of this sustainable, fast-growing wood.
From the fine folks at UK-based Pedlars, this fully-restored 1935 Replogle world clock globe has a dial-style clock on the base that tells time the world over.
Can’t get enough Tweeting? This cheerful alarm clock has a pretty bright-sky face and is topped with a cute little birdie that glows and pulses when the birdsong alarm goes off. From Bibelot, it also has a snooze button.
Busy household? Check the time coming and going with this double-sided, train station-inspired clock from The Conran Shop.
Unfortunately I didn’t get the math genius gene that runs rampant on my mom’s side, but I can still tell the time on this wacky math-problems-on-the-chalkboard clock without having to solve the problem posed at each hour. At ThinkGeek.
