Imhof 8-Day Modernist Spherical Table Clock, ca. 1960s
CHF 1200.00
This striking mid-century spherical table clock by the Swiss firm Imhof exemplifies the modernist aesthetic of the 1960s, combining geometric purity with luxurious materials and meticulous Swiss craftsmanship. The globe-form case is finished in a soft pale green enamel, mounted on a tiered polished brass pedestal base with elegant turned elements. The sphere rotates to display the time on its painted dial, which features bold Roman numerals at the hour positions and Arabic minute divisions (5, 10, 15, etc.) around the equator.
The top of the sphere bears a gilt brass disc engraved with the Latin motto "Tempus Fugit" ("Time Flies") within a laurel wreath border—a classical memento mori rendered in clean modernist style. The gilt brass collar at the base of the sphere is engraved "Imhof," confirming the maker. The movement housing is clearly marked "8 DAYS" and "SWISS," indicating an eight-day spring-driven movement typical of quality Swiss table clocks of the period. Imhof, founded in Basel in the 19th century, became renowned internationally for high-grade travel clocks, desk clocks, and luxury timepieces, many featuring innovative designs and complications.
The spherical form was a popular mid-century modern motif, symbolizing space-age optimism, internationalism, and technological progress. This clock would have appealed to sophisticated postwar clients seeking furnishings that reflected the streamlined aesthetic of jet travel, modern architecture, and contemporary design. The combination of pale enamel and polished brass creates a refined, jewellike presence on the desk or mantelpiece. The rotating globe mechanism allows the time to be read from multiple angles, a clever union of form and function.
Condition: The clock presents in good overall condition. The pale green enamel shows light surface wear and minor scuffs consistent with age and careful use. The brass base retains much of its original polish with some natural tarnish and patina developing. The dial paint is intact with crisp numerals. The movement's functional status has not been tested; as with all mechanical timepieces of this age, professional servicing is advisable to ensure reliable timekeeping. The rotating mechanism and winding arbor appear intact.
Material: Pale green enameled metal sphere, polished brass base and fittings, gilt brass top disc
The top of the sphere bears a gilt brass disc engraved with the Latin motto "Tempus Fugit" ("Time Flies") within a laurel wreath border—a classical memento mori rendered in clean modernist style. The gilt brass collar at the base of the sphere is engraved "Imhof," confirming the maker. The movement housing is clearly marked "8 DAYS" and "SWISS," indicating an eight-day spring-driven movement typical of quality Swiss table clocks of the period. Imhof, founded in Basel in the 19th century, became renowned internationally for high-grade travel clocks, desk clocks, and luxury timepieces, many featuring innovative designs and complications.
The spherical form was a popular mid-century modern motif, symbolizing space-age optimism, internationalism, and technological progress. This clock would have appealed to sophisticated postwar clients seeking furnishings that reflected the streamlined aesthetic of jet travel, modern architecture, and contemporary design. The combination of pale enamel and polished brass creates a refined, jewellike presence on the desk or mantelpiece. The rotating globe mechanism allows the time to be read from multiple angles, a clever union of form and function.
Condition: The clock presents in good overall condition. The pale green enamel shows light surface wear and minor scuffs consistent with age and careful use. The brass base retains much of its original polish with some natural tarnish and patina developing. The dial paint is intact with crisp numerals. The movement's functional status has not been tested; as with all mechanical timepieces of this age, professional servicing is advisable to ensure reliable timekeeping. The rotating mechanism and winding arbor appear intact.
Material: Pale green enameled metal sphere, polished brass base and fittings, gilt brass top disc
Condition notes
Good overall condition. Pale green enamel sphere shows light surface wear, minor scuffs, and handling marks consistent with age. Brass base and fittings retain much original polish with developing tarnish and patina; some spotting visible. Dial paint intact with crisp Roman numeral hours and Arabic minute divisions. Top disc engraving clear. Hand appears original. Movement functional status not tested; routine servicing recommended for eight-day mechanical movement. Rotating mechanism and winding arbor intact.
imhof
mid-century modern
spherical clock
globe clock
table clock
desk clock
swiss clock
1960s