The Ultimate Modern Clock A Look At George Nelson Clocks

While it is estimated that there's well over 150 George Nelson clocks originally designed from 1948-1960, the first created for Howard Miller, is known as the Ball Clock.

A must have item on the top 10 list of retro furniture that belongs in every mid-century home is a retro clock – a George Nelson clock. George Nelson's wall clocks epitomize the spirit of modern design in the early 1950's. His vision was to bring modern style right in to the American home by transforming everyday items, such as clocks & other home accessories, with pretty & practical modern design.

Fortunately for retro furniture enthusiast, exquisite re-editions of the George Nelson Ball Clock are obtainable (see resource box). The clock is manufactured to the exact original specifications of George Nelson. However, unlike the originals that had an electric cord, these have high quality quartz movements powered by one AA battery. Made of wood & metal, these re-editions of the original are a favorite of collectors of the mid-century period.

Nelson recalls the iconic design of the Ball Clock as being a result of a night of drinking with friends & associates, Isamu Noguchi, Bucky Fuller, & Irving Harper. To this day, it is a mystery as to which one actually “cooked it up.” This modern clock is a whimsical design composed of colorful balls instead of numbers on the finish of metal stems.

Another favorite re-edition is the Sunflower clock. Basically attractive. The Sunflower clock is a beautifully matchless use of simple birch & laminated metal pins to intricately form the shape of a sunflower.

Other George Nelson clock re-editions that exemplify the classic Mid-Century modernist style are obtainable . It would be hard to pick a favorite, but the Kite clock is pretty, elegant & stylish.

The Wooden Spindle clock with dark walnut spindles & geometric design is basic modern classic.

& last but not least, nothing says retro mod like the Eye clock. Interesting , this clock was first featured in brochures in diagonal position, not horizontal where it looks like an eye.

These retro clocks are not just functional timepieces, but works of art you will delight in. When buying a modern clock to add to your retro furniture collection, look for quality. You will enjoy & appreciate the design of a well crafted piece so much more.