Turbine Clock

Design

The Turbine Clock is part of George Nelson’s renowned "Wall Clocks" collection, which emerged from the designer’s reflections on the role of clocks in the home. Nelson observed that one could tell the time simply by noting the relative positions of the hands, rendering numerals unnecessary. This insight led to the creation of clocks where form, material, and color are just as significant as function. The Turbine Clock embodies this concept through a series of angled, radially arranged metal elements that suggest the motion of a turbine. Its large scale enhances the object’s graphic quality, turning it into a true architectural presence on the wall.

Materials and Finishes

The Turbine Clock combines two metals: brass and aluminum. The brass introduces a warm, radiant tone, while the aluminum lends a sense of visual lightness to the composition. The interplay between the metallic surfaces and the radial geometry highlights the clock’s mid-century character, producing varied reflections based on the ambient lighting.

Functionality

The Turbine Clock is powered by a high-quality quartz movement, ensuring precise and reliable timekeeping. Like other clocks in George Nelson’s collection, it features no numerals; the time is read by observing the hands in relation to the radial structure that visually defines the clock face. Battery-operated, it can be mounted anywhere on a wall without the need for electrical connections.

Versatility and Adaptability

With a diameter of 76.5 cm, the Turbine Clock is one of the most striking wall clocks in the Vitra collection. It is particularly well-suited for large walls in living rooms, dining areas, studies, executive offices, lounges, and hospitality spaces, where it can serve as a focal point. The combination of brass and aluminum allows it to pair effortlessly with wood, natural stone, neutral surfaces, and metallic accents—fitting perfectly into both contemporary interiors and mid-century inspired settings.