The
original orbichron® clock
was first introduced in 1981. It is a microprocessor controlled, digital
timepiece with an LED analog display presented in an aesthetically
pleasing cabinet consisting of natural wood and black-anodized, brushed
aluminum alloy. Hours are displayed in 15 minute or quarter-hour
increments on the inner ring of 48 amber
LEDs, while minutes, seconds, and the optional sweep are shown via the
outer ring of 60 red LEDs. The orbichron
clock has three sweep options: off, normal forward motion, alternating
forward and reverse each second.
In a technological world
where utilitarianism litters the home and workplace with digital
clocks, the orbichron clock blends the beauty and elegance of
traditional analog timepieces...approaching kinetic art.
The orbichron clock indeed represents a unique form of timekeeping.
The name is a derivation of the device's function:
orbiting-digital-chronometer. That is to say, the clock is 100%
solid-state (no moving parts), uses advanced microprocessor technology,
and displays time via LEDs (light-emitting-diodes) in a format that
emulates a traditional analog timepiece. However, in addition to hours,
minutes and seconds, the orbichron clock sweeps at a rate of 60
cycles per second; a dramatic display that is not only eye-catching, but
on the very threshold of being hypnotic.
Performance and aesthetics combine in a sleek, graceful cabinet
highlighted with your choice of either natural, solid wood or polished
metal panels. The black-anodized, brushed aluminum face accents the soft
glow of red and amber LEDs while enabling the orbichron clock to
enhance any decor. A matching black pedestal detaches to facilitate wall
mounting.
Available wood
finishes are oak, teak and walnut. Or you may select the black, chrome or gold
anodized polished aluminum sides. The face and rear panels are detailed with
gold legending, with the exception of the chrome aluminum version which is
accented in silver ink.
For more intimate
spaces, the orbichron clock is available in a smaller design of simpler
lines in a black finish with chrome legending. This case design incorporates an
integrated pedestal.
SPECIFICATIONS
Accuracy
The orbichron clock's accuracy is dependent upon the 60Hz frequency
generated by all domestic power companies. In the United States this frequency
is maintained and periodically corrected by comparison to the atomic time
standard at the National Bureau of Standards in Boulder, Colorado.
Power Requirements
Power is supplied by a 6VAC adapter rated at 160mA. The cost of operating this
clock is well under one dollar per year.
Warranty
The orbichron clock is warranted against electronic failure under normal use and
conditions for a period of two years from the date of purchase.
Operating Instructions
Key Switches
Sweep Defeat (Mode) - This
switch allows the user to selectively turn off the sweep display, or
restore its two operating modes. Normally, the display sweeps clockwise
continuously. However, by keying the switch once again, the sweep reverses
direction each second at the top of its travel.
Hold - When this button is
depressed, all counting will cease, and will not resume until the switch
is subsequently released. Note that the sweep function is reset by this
action thereby allowing synchronization to a standard time reference.
Mins and Hours Advance -
These two switches respectively advance the minute and hour indicators.
When setting the time, key first the minutes, then the hours button until
the proper time display is achieved. Keep in mind that the hours are
delineated in fifteen minute intervals.
Miscellaneous
Power Failure - In the event
of a power failure, the clock will restart at 12:00:00 and the hours,
minutes and seconds display will flash to indicate the need for resetting
the time. Pushing any of the four switches restores the normal display.
Maintenance - Having no
moving parts, the orbichron clock requires no
periodic maintenance, and its surfaces may be easily cleaned when
necessary.
Pricing (Note: These products are currently unavailable!)
(All prices are quoted in US dollars.)
Description
Model #
MSRP*
Small Black Case w/Chrome Legend
ODC-108-S
$160
Standard Case w/Oak Sides & Gold Legend
ODC-108-O
$250
Standard Case w/Teak Sides & Gold Legend
ODC-108-T
$270
Standard Case w/Walnut Sides & Gold Legend
ODC-108-W
$280
Standard Case w/Polished, Black-Anodized Aluminum
Sides & Gold Legend
ODC-108-B
$290
Standard Case w/Polished, Clear-Anodized Aluminum
Sides & Chrome Legend
ODC-108-C
$300
Standard Case w/Polished, Gold-Anodized Aluminum Sides
& Gold Legend