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What do you notice while you are you are on that everyday commute to work? Walking the dog? Going for a run? Whether you live in a big city or small town, chances are that a few key landmarks stand out along the way: a park, a distinctive building, even a unique sign. These landmarks tell stories about the character and history of the place you're traveling through. The next time you come upon an outdoor clock on one of these journeys--even an imaginary journey through a photo collection--take a closer look. What it reveals may surprise you!
Many Faces, Many Places
Large outdoor clocks are as unique as their designers and the spaces they occupy. Many large outdoor clocks are mounted on buildings, big enough for everyone to see. These could be set on the outside wall of the building or mounted on brackets or a pedestal. These types of clocks often identify iconic buildings that are integral to a community's history. But these are only the tip of the iceberg!
Other outdoor clocks are designed to appeal to people on foot. A bracket clock is ideal for crowded downtown areas because passers-by in both directions can easily see the time. A tower clock is designed to create a sense of community in gathering places like local parks and gardens. And a skeletal clock is unique because it is "faceless," showing only numbers and hands.
Still other clocks have illuminated dials, so you can see what time it is from a distance. You may even see a neon clock inviting you to enjoy a great meal at your local diner.
It's in the Numbers
Look closely at an outdoor clock the next time your commuter train stops at a station. The dial and hand designs are distinct and usually Roman, Arabic, or Modern. Some clock makers use a combination of number and hand designs for a unique look. The style of the dial may offer some hints about the history and atmosphere of the surrounding area. Even with this diversity of styles, all outdoor clocks are built to last and will withstand even the worst effects of weather.
Around the World
If you take a journey online or in a photo book, you can learn even more about well-known places through their outdoor clocks. Some of the largest are located in England, including Big Ben and its massive clock face in the Palace of Westminster. This timepiece is extremely reliable, and has rarely failed since its construction in the mid 1800s--even through World War II and London's weather! It's no wonder that this famous outdoor clock has become a national symbol through its resilience and strength.
But outdoor clocks don't need to be national icons to be unique landmarks. They don't even have to be mounted on a building, wall, or pedestal! There are beautiful floral clocks located in many parks and gardens throughout the world. A visit to the Missouri Botanical Gardens in St. Louis will reveal a majestic floral clock inviting passerby to momentarily forget the fast-paced outside world. The Golden Gate Park in San Francisco, the City Park in Puerto Rico; and Nassau are also home to intricate floral clocks made of native flowers. And, if you're really adventurous, check out the clock at the McMurdo Station in Antarctica (near the South Pole)!
Where ever you are or where ever you go, take a close look at an outdoor clock. Then, when you get home, visit Lumichron in Grand Rapids, or Lumichron.com. In no time, you will have your own custom built outdoor clock to show off to family and friends.
