Asterisk Clock

Design

The Asterisk Clock is part of George Nelson’s renowned collection of wall clocks, which emerged from the designer’s reflections on how people tell time. Nelson believed that the relative positions of the hands were sufficient to interpret the time, rendering numbers superfluous. This insight led to a clock where function is distilled down to its essential components, allowing for a strong decorative quality. The radial structure creates an abstract, dynamic form, turning the Asterisk Clock into a small, sculptural object for the wall.

Materials and finishes

The Asterisk Clock is crafted primarily from metal—available in black or brass—a material that highlights the precision and lightness of its graphic design. The black version emphasizes the clock’s minimalist, contemporary character, while the brass version introduces a warmer, more refined presence.

Functionality

The Asterisk Clock features a high-quality quartz movement, ensuring precise and reliable timekeeping. It operates on a 1.5V battery (included), allowing for immediate use without the need for electrical wiring. The absence of numbers contributes to the design’s visual clarity without compromising readability, which relies entirely on the positioning of the hands.

Versatility and Adaptability

With a diameter of just 25 cm, the Asterisk Clock fits easily into a living room, study, kitchen, or home office, as well as into professional offices, lounges, and hospitality spaces. Its compact dimensions make it suitable both as a standalone decorative piece and as part of a wall arrangement alongside artworks, photographs, and other design objects. Furthermore, its minimalist and timeless aesthetic allows it to complement everything from contemporary furnishings to mid-century inspired interiors.