Time is the master of us all. But the timekeeping elements of clocks are just part of their charm.
They have become pieces of art in their own right, adding interest and character to a room.
‘Information is beautiful. A clock is that. It’s a moving, dynamic thing,’ says Jo Le Gleud, co-founder, of award-winning design studio Maddux Creative.
Traditional or modern: Grandfather clocks are finally back in fashion and can really stand out in the hallway, but there are also plenty of more contemporary styles
And we’re getting more creative when choosing which timepieces we introduce into our homes.
Jane Murray, home buyer at Heal’s furniture store, says: ‘Customers are opting for quirkier, more colourful designs as people rely on their phones and smart devices for practical tasks like telling the time.’
Whatever your taste, there is a plethora of different styles and types of clocks that you can choose from.
On the wall
Large wall clocks are a brilliant way of filling space and attracting attention. Newgate’s Mr Edwards Wall Clock (£125) in grey is a good starting point.
‘With a minimalist white clock face and matt-grey metal case, this classic mid-century design is perfect for pared-back settings, working beautifully on its own, above a fireplace, or to break up a decorative gallery wall,’ says Murray.
Graham & Green’s Large Yellow Wall Clock (£79) injects a burst of sunshine that offsets its bold black dial markings and red numbers, while Ikea’s Pluttis red timekeeper is striking and a snip at £5, ikea.com.
Vitra’s George Nelson Sunburst Wall Clock (£369) verges into art with its sculptural form and is a faithful re-edition of a popular 1950s collector’s piece designed by the eminent American architect.
It’s worth scouting antique shops and the internet for antique pieces which can blend brilliantly with modern interiors.
‘We recently sourced and installed a handsome convex glass, mahogany framed 1820s round wall clock in a kitchen,’ says interior designer Anna Haines. ‘It anchors the room and is, of course, a ‘one off’ which is rather special.’
Stylish: Newgate’s Hollywood Hills Mantel Clock (£99) would make a stylish addition to any mantelpiece or shelf
Shelf life
Mantelpiece clocks may be seen as old-fashioned but there are some fantastic contemporary ones.
Brown and Ginger’s Atomic Orange Flock Mantel Clock (£49) looks like something from the Mad Hatter’s tea party. It’s based on a French design from the 1750s but is totally modern thanks to its vibrant colour and flock finish.
Newgate’s Hollywood Hills Mantel Clock (£99), with its rectangular oak frame and multi-coloured hour markers, would make a stylish addition to any mantelpiece or shelf.
Flip and click
There is a utilitarian coolness to Twemco’s series 17 Flip Clock & Calendar in Black (£515).
This elaborate version of the 1956 classic is instantly recognisable and will add design edge to a kitchen or living room.
The Font Clock G100 Small from Established & Sons (£504) is an unmistakeable vintage classic.
‘The continuous 24-hour flip display on the Font Clock creates a really nostalgic feel, while different graphic typefaces give it a contemporary aesthetic, making it a timeless piece within any living space,’ says Murray.
Those wanting something uber up to date will like QlockTwo’s Touch Black Ice acrylic clock (£555) — a square clock with a matrix of letters that light up the time in words.
Up to date: QlockTwo’s Touch Black Ice acrylic clock is a super-modern option that tells the time in words
New cuckoos
It’s easy to think of cuckoo clocks as the ostentatious traditional ones that came out of Germany and Switzerland in the mid-19th century, but some new ones are far less kitsch.
‘Modern cuckoo clocks are a great way to add personality to your home, giving all the fun of a traditional cuckoo clock, with a contemporary, clean design,’ says Jane Nicholson, co-founder of online design showroom House of Dome.
‘Our collection nods to the classic Swiss chalet and Black Forest style, but are minimalist and sleek for the modern interior,’
The Titti 2077 by Diamantini and Domeniconi (£228) comes in a yellow, white or pink lacquered finish and has a clever built-in light sensor, so the cuckoo does not keep you up at night.
King of clocks
With their tall stature, elaborate faces and distinctive four-bell Westminster chime, grandfathers are the undisputed king of clocks and add a touch of class to a hallway.
Antique grandfather clocks can cost tens of thousands, but may be picked up for as little as £350. Dunelm’s Fulton Grandfather clock (£200) evolves this design classic to create a clock with one open shelf and drawers.
Tiuku’s standing pendulum clock (£245)is a minimalist, modern and colourful take on this much-loved design.
Time is of the essence. So what are you waiting for?