Nelson Turbine Clock Wall Clock
Best statement piece for mid-century modern design enthusiasts.
The Vitra Nelson Turbine Clock, a 1957 design by George Nelson, is an iconic, oversized wall timepiece. It masterfully reinterprets the radial fins of a turbine engine, spanning an impressive 30 inches. These brass fins are angled to create a dynamic visual effect, suggesting motion. Contrasting sharply with the metallic fins is the silvery aluminum face at the center. This authentic re-edition brings a piece of mid-century design history into your space.
$1180.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
312
/ 2339
#312 in Wall Clocks
Price vs Category Average
+339%
Above average
Design Year
1957
Who it's for
- Design enthusiasts seeking an authentic mid-century statement piece
- Collectors prioritizing high-quality craftsmanship and long-term durability
- Interior stylists wanting to add architectural depth and visual movement
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious shoppers looking for an affordable wall clock
- Users needing a clock that offers quick, effortless time reading
- Minimalists who prefer low-maintenance home decor accessories
Performance breakdown
Design Authenticity
An officially authorized re-edition that honors George Nelson’s original 1957 vision.
Visual Impact
The massive thirty-inch diameter commands attention in any large living space.
Material Quality
Premium brass and aluminum construction ensures a high-end, durable finish.
Timekeeping Precision
Reliable quartz movement provides consistent accuracy for daily time management.
Installation Complexity
Large scale and delicate fins require careful handling during wall mounting.
Style Versatility
Best suited for mid-century modern interiors rather than minimalist or traditional spaces.
Key Specs
Design Year
1957
Diameter
30 inches (span of fins)
Material (Fins)
Brass
Material (Face)
Aluminum
Movement Type
Quartz
Item Number
R016707
Features
- Oversized design reinterpreting a turbine engine
- Fins angled to create an illusion of motion
- Authentic re-edition authorized by the Nelson estate
- Contrasting aluminum center face
- Iconic mid-century modern design
- Durable brass and aluminum construction
What customers say
This clock is celebrated as a true midcentury icon, praised for its striking sculptural design. Reviewers consistently highlight the exceptional quality and precise craftsmanship, noting the substantial materials and flawless finish. While acknowledging the premium price, buyers view this purchase as a significant, enduring piece of wall art that instantly elevates interior spaces. The design appeal far outweighs cost concerns for most owners, making it a valued addition for its aesthetic impact and enduring style.
Know before you buy
The clock measures 30 inches in diameter. Because of its significant size and radial design, it works best as a standalone focal point on a large, unobstructed wall.
This is an authentic, authorized re-edition produced by Vitra in collaboration with the George Nelson estate, ensuring it adheres to the original 1957 design specifications.
The clock is powered by a high-quality quartz movement, which provides reliable and accurate timekeeping while requiring minimal maintenance.
The clock is constructed from durable brass and aluminum. Like many high-end metallic finishes, the brass may develop a natural patina over time, which is considered a characteristic of the authentic material.
As it utilizes a standard quartz movement, you may hear a very faint ticking sound in a completely silent room, though it is generally not disruptive in a living or office space.
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