Sunburst Clock

Design

The Sunburst Clock emerged from George Nelson’s exploration of everyday objects and the role of the clock within the home. The designer believed that the position of the hands was sufficient to read the time, rendering numbers superfluous. This insight led to an open, three-dimensional dial, constructed from a series of pointed rays arranged around a central point. The rhythm of the shapes and colors creates a dynamic effect, reminiscent of the outward expansion of sunbeams. More than just a tool for measuring time, the Sunburst Clock serves as a graphic element that instantly defines any wall.

Materials and Finishes

The Sunburst Clock combines wood and metal, which are used to craft its radial structure and hands. The "Multicolor" version highlights the playful, quintessentially 1950s character of the design, while the "Walnut" and "Black/Brass" versions offer more sophisticated, material-focused interpretations.

Functionality

The Sunburst Clock features a high-quality quartz movement, ensuring precision and reliability for everyday use. Like all of George Nelson’s wall clocks, it is entirely devoid of numbers; the time is read by observing the position of the hands in relation to the rays that visually mark the dial. Powered by batteries, it can be easily mounted anywhere on a wall, without the need for electrical connections.

Versatility and Adaptability

With a diameter of 47 cm, the Sunburst Clock makes a significant decorative statement without being overly imposing. It can become a focal point in a living room, dining room, study, or home office, but it also fits easily into restaurants, lounges, offices, and hospitality spaces. The variety of available finishes allows it to be incorporated into both mid-century-inspired interiors and contemporary settings where one wishes to introduce an icon of 20th-century design.