Here are 6 retro clocks from George Nelson, one of the greats of Mid-Century Modern design.
The story goes that these clocks resulted from a playful session with Isamu Noguchi and Bucky Fuller, who tried to outdo each other in making outlandish doodles, shapes and marks. Whatever the origin, there is no denying that these designs can wake up tired, boring decor...or add to an already exciting interior. Take a look.
1. George Nelson Inspired Retro Eye Wall Clock
Photo (c)Kirch Industrial Company
This clock was inspired by one of George Nelson's best known designs, and is smaller than the original.
This clock measures 11.5"H x 24.5"W x 2"D and is designed to look like an eye. The black metal design has a brushed aluminum dial with white and red hands, The aluminum silver center circle mimics a pupil, while the ridges on the frame look like eyelashes.
This particular clock is not an authentic George Nelson Clock, but an adaptation. It does not have the same proportions either and that accounts for its much lower price, when you compare to authentic pieces.
If you're working with a smaller budget, and still want the look, this could be an option. However if you want the real thing, you can compare prices here.
2. Ball Wall Clock
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The Ball Clock is one of the best known George Nelson designs. Nothing says Retro like this one.
Each wooden ball marks an hour, and the colors are fresh and playful, making it a lighthearted addition to any room.
This clock is not an authentic version either, and again for that reason is priced lower. It requires one AA battery to run, and measures 13" in diameter.
3. Kite Clock by George Nelson
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The Kite Clock by George Nelson gets its name from its shape.
The clock is in stark black and white, divided right down the middle, and the red hands add color and vitality to it. This is also a good sized piece and will draw attention to itself through its size, shape, and color.
The Kite Clock was designed by George Nelson in the 1950s and is easily recognizable. This happens to be an authentic re-edition, fully authorized by the Nelson Estate. It has high grade quartz clockwork.
Dimensions: 16.25" H x 21.75" W
4. Watermelon Clock by George Nelson
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Vitra has reissued many of George Nelson's designs with the permission of the Nelson Estate. The Water Melon Clock is one of them.
Standing on three legs, this clock seems to combine elements from some of his other well known designs. The Eye Clock and the Kite Clock seem to be echoed here, but its over all design is very distinctive.
Made from lacquered wood and metal, the clock is battery operated, and was built using original documents and specifications from the George Nelson Archive.
Dimensions: 5" H x 7.75" W x 4" D
5. George Nelson's Zoo Timers Wall Clocks - Omar the Owl
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Omar the Owl is but one of the critters in the Zoo Timers Wall Clocks Series. But he is undoubtedly one of the most easily recognizable ones.
This clock is often used for children's room but it doesn't have to be. Unless the rest of your home is very formal, you can enjoy this retro clock too. An authentic re-edition of the Zoo Timers Clocks, it was built using original George Nelson documents. The Zoo Timers Clocks were originally issued in 1965.
The background is black, with feathers detailed in blue in printed plastic. It is battery operated with high grade quartz movement.
Dimensions: 10" H × 10.5" W × 1.5" D
6. The George Nelson Petal Clock
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George Nelson's Petal Clock is one of the most popular Retro wall clocks. He designed the Petal Clock in the 1950s.
This George Nelson Petal Clock is an authentic Vitra re-edition, fully authorized by the George Nelson Estate. Besides being an icon of Mid-Century Modern design, it is a beautifully designed wall clock. I like how it invokes the petals of a flower without going into great detail. The colors are beautiful, too.
This is a large clock, almost 18" in diameter, so be sure to find a space on your wall where you can display it properly.
