By Atelier graphique Kurth / http://www.nixie-concrete.com/
Price: $TBD/ Not yet in production
Description
The vintage Z560M Nixie tubes, used in former East-Germany in the mid 20th century as numeric displays, were the inspiration for the design of Daniel Kurth's (www.kurth.lu) Nixie Concrete clock.
The Luxembourgish designer enclosed the shiny orange Nixie tubes in a reinforced rough concrete body which can optionally be wall mounted. The strength of this design lies in the application of 'retro technology' and its interesting combination of components and materials, where one is easily fooled as to what is old and what is new. All electronic components in this fully functioning prototype are assembled by hand.
Unlike other clocks that make use of Nixie tubes, this one does not read like a traditional display. Kurth experienced that clocks - regardless of their aesthetic value - sometimes form a disturbing factor in one's house, since being constantly reminded of the time can be stressful. By rearranging the display, one can enjoy the playful interaction between the 6 different tubes without realizing straight away what time it is. A short focus will however allow you to use it as a 'normal' clock. The time in the picture reads 10:23:54.
Check out the movies to see the full beauty of Nixie tubes.
The nixie concrete clock is a unique fully functioning prototype.
Daniel Kurth is looking for production possibilities.
Technical specifications
- 12 / 24 hr mode
- 160 x 162 x 87 mm
- 3.3 lbs concrete body
- 244 cable connections
- Up to 200.000 hours tube lifespan
- 12 V AC (comes with 220 V adapter)
- Eco-saver automatic dimming function
- Auto Detection of 1Hz, 50Hz or 60Hz clock pulse input mode
- 6 x Z560M Nixie Tube (unused) running at 180 VDC with multiplexing
- Dimming via push button
- Handmade assembly of all electronic components
- Handmade reinforced concrete body
- Hand-drilled tube holders
- Made in Luxembourg
- Wallmount possible
All photos, videos and descriptions are © Atelier graphique Kurth
