Vitra Nelson Sunburst Wall Clock Walnut by George Nelson
Best statement piece for mid-century modern design enthusiasts.
Elevate your space with the iconic Nelson™ Sunburst Clock by Vitra, a mid-century modern masterpiece designed by George Nelson. This clock is more than a timekeeper; it's a vibrant decorative element that adds a burst of brilliance to any room. Its distinctive design, created in 1949, features a sunburst silhouette without numbers, relying on the hands' positions for easy readability. Crafted from high-quality walnut wood and metal with a precise quartz movement, this artistic timepiece is a functional statement piece for modern interiors.
$710.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
13
/ 2339
#13 in Wall Clocks
Price vs Category Average
+164%
Above average
Diameter
18.5
/ inches
Who it's for
- Design enthusiasts seeking an iconic mid-century statement piece
- Quality-focused collectors valuing authentic craftsmanship and durable materials
- Interior decorators looking for a bold, sculptural focal point
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious shoppers prioritizing utility over design heritage
- Busy homeowners wanting low-maintenance home accessories
- Traditionalists or minimalists whose decor conflicts with retro aesthetics
Performance breakdown
Design Authenticity
A faithful reproduction of George Nelson’s seminal mid-century modern vision.
Material Quality
Premium walnut and metal construction ensure lasting structural integrity.
Visual Impact
The sunburst silhouette serves as a striking focal point for interiors.
Readability
The absence of numerals requires a moment of adjustment for time-telling.
Movement Precision
Reliable quartz movement provides consistent and accurate timekeeping performance.
Installation Ease
Lightweight design allows for simple mounting on most wall surfaces.
Key Specs
Diameter
18.5 inches
Style
Mid-Century Modern
Number Type
No Numerals
Clock Movement
Quartz Ticking
Power Source
Battery Operated
Shape
Round
Display Type
Analog
Material
Wood, Metal
Features
- Iconic mid-century modern design
- Decorative sunburst silhouette
- No numbers on the clock face
- Crafted from walnut wood and metal
- Functional timepiece and art piece
- Adds artistic flair to any room
- High-quality quartz movement
What customers say
The Vitra Nelson Sunburst Wall Clock is celebrated as an authentic design icon, highly valued by aficionados for its superior quality and artistic merit. Customers consistently praise the meticulous craftsmanship, noting the rich walnut and precise metal rays create a striking physical presence unmatched by photographs. This fidelity to George Nelson’s original vision justifies the premium price for those seeking the genuine article. While the cost is noted, owners feel the investment is worthwhile due to its timeless appeal and enduring build quality over replicas. The consensus is that this perfectly balanced clock is a definitive statement piece that instantly elevates interior design, resulting in profound satisfaction for those prioritizing heritage and lasting quality.
Know before you buy
Yes, the clock is designed to be read by the position of the hands relative to the sunburst spikes. Most users find it intuitive to tell time at a glance once they are accustomed to the layout.
The clock operates on a single AA battery. It is recommended to use a high-quality alkaline battery to ensure the longevity and accuracy of the quartz movement.
The clock features a standard quartz movement, which produces a subtle ticking sound. While it is generally quiet, it may be audible in a completely silent environment like a bedroom.
The clock has a diameter of 18.5 inches. Because of its expansive sunburst design, it works best on a wall with enough clearance to allow the silhouette to stand out without feeling crowded by other decor.
Yes, the clock is crafted from high-quality walnut and metal. To maintain its appearance, keep it away from direct sunlight and extreme humidity, which can affect the natural wood finish over time.
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