Cifra 3 Flip Clock
Best iconic timepiece for design enthusiasts seeking a blend of art and function.
The Cifra 3 Flip Clock, designed by Gino Valle in 1966, is an iconic piece of 20th-century design. This battery-operated mechanical clock features a patented split-flap display for clear, precise time indication. Its distinctive white numbers on a black background and unique typefaces make it instantly recognizable. Housed in a sleek PC-ABS case, it's available in Black, White, Red, and Green, with special Gold and Silver editions. The Cifra 3 is celebrated for its compact size and reliable performance, making it a perfect addition to any home or office. It is not recommended for use in bathrooms, outdoors, or high humidity areas.
$750.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.4
/ 5
Category Rank
228
/ 398
#228 in Desk & Shelf Clocks
Price vs Category Average
+205%
Above average
Who it's for
- Design enthusiasts seeking a statement piece for their home or office.
- Collectors valuing enduring products with a rich heritage and meticulous construction.
- Individuals appreciating the subtle, nostalgic sounds of mechanical timekeeping devices.
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious shoppers looking for a simple, affordable time-telling device.
- Light sleepers or those requiring absolute silence in their personal spaces.
- Users needing advanced features or absolute time accuracy from their timekeeping device.
Key Specs
Made in Italy
Dimensions
3.75 x 7 x 4.1 in
Weight
1.45 lbs
Battery operated
Case
PC-ABS
Protective cover
transparent polycarbonate
Flap display driven by stepper motor
Ambient temperature
40° - 90° F
Features
- Iconic 20th-century design recognized worldwide
- Patented flipping roller mechanism for precise time transitions
- Easy-to-read display with white numbers on a black background
- Hand-chosen typefaces for hour and minute digits
- Battery-driven mechanical movement for reliable operation
- Compact size, smallest direct-reading clock of its kind
- Available in multiple colors and special editions
- Can be customized for corporate gifts
What customers say
Customers consistently express deep admiration for the Cifra 3 Flip Clock, primarily celebrating its iconic design and exceptional build quality. Many consider it a timeless work of art, appreciating its unique aesthetic and the nostalgic charm it adds to any environment. The craftsmanship receives frequent praise, with users highlighting its robust construction and the satisfying, precise operation of the flip mechanism. Its ability to elevate a space through both form and function is a recurring theme, making it a cherished item for those who value enduring style and superior engineering.
Know before you buy
The clock features a mechanical flipping mechanism that produces a soft, audible click as the minutes transition. While not silent, most users find the sound subtle and rhythmic rather than distracting.
No, the Cifra 3 is not designed for high-humidity areas. It should be kept in a dry, indoor environment within an ambient temperature range of 40° to 90° F to ensure the longevity of the internal mechanical components.
The Cifra 3 uses a high-quality quartz movement to drive its stepper motor, resulting in an impressive precision of ±60 seconds per year.
Yes, the high-contrast white numbers on a black background are designed for excellent legibility. The display is clear and readable from a distance of over 30 feet.
The Cifra 3 is battery-operated, which allows you to place it anywhere on a desk or shelf without worrying about proximity to a power outlet or managing unsightly cords.
The main body is constructed from durable PC-ABS plastic, while the front display is protected by a transparent polycarbonate cover that keeps the internal mechanism free from dust.
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