Smartphones may be our ultimate timekeepers these days, but the best wall clocks certainly add more panache to the act of checking the time—and they double as home decor too. Aside from keeping you on schedule, an analog wall clock can also make an interior design statement in any room, from the kitchen to the home office (much like any great alarm clock in the bedroom). These battery-operated clocks never need to be charged and can reflect your personality—you’re a design enthusiast, an aesthete, a keeper of traditions, or maybe even a self-described Luddite (no shame in minimizing screen time). Here, a selection of analog wall clocks to suit your home, whether you’re a midcentury-design lover or budding art collector (they’ve been known to pull their weight on a gallery wall). These functional, gorgeous tickers prove that sometimes being a little old-school isn’t such a bad thing.
Our Top Picks for the Best Wall Clocks
In this Article:
Retro Pick
There’s a whole lot of retro happening here, and we’re into it. Maybe it’s a tenth the size of a grandfather clock, but hang it up in a corner that could use a little boost—we’re thinking of an entryway, bathroom, or kitchen nook—and it transforms the space. It only requires one AA battery, which is a huge plus, and sets you back just $27.
The Old Standby
With this model, home decor gets down to business. This round wall clock (non-ticking, by the way, for those of you who can’t stand white noise), from the long-standing Japanese watch brand Seiko, can take itself as seriously or as unseriously as you style it. At the head of a boardroom, hovering above the hot head of a CFO? Sure. In the miniature square footage of a New York apartment, a wall-mounted reminder of just how late you’re running to one of the 19 events you RSVPed to this week? Totally.
Gallery Wall Bait
Designed by George Nelson in 1949, this decorative wall clock is made of lacquered wood and metal, and is available in a range of colors. It measures 13 inches in diameter and will automatically introduce a burst of personality to any space.
Stainless Steel Stunner
This ultra-modern wall clock is non-ticking and powered by quartz movement, making it as accurate as human nature has figured out at this point. Its doubled-over stainless steel makes this a statement guests won’t easily forget.
A Scandi Favorite
Speaking of focal points, this Lemnos SOSO is a saturated version of the minimalist Schoolhouse pick up top. This Japanese design shrinks the size of the clock face and adds color-contrasting clock hands while still employing bold ’60s colorways for a vintage look.
More AD-Approved Wall Clocks
With just one remaining, this clock will go fast. I envy whoever is putting together this vibe in their retro-themed kitchen. This would look exactly at home over a formica dinette, maybe some Tammy Wynette on the record player.
This melting blue piece from Ferm Living makes the Dali reference we were all waiting for. The goopy shape and Yves Klein color give it a completely distinct look and bring a punchy color palette to blank walls.
Known for his timeless designs and silversmithing, Danish designer Georg Jensen’s metal wall clock (stainless steel, to be exact), inspired by the streets of Copenhagen, considers craftsmanship and clock design to create something both high-quality and aesthetic.
Another one-of-one. I don’t know why I’m sharing this—I want it for myself.
For any living room that could use a charming focal point, this number from MacKenzie Childs in its signature courtly check indicates style and design know-how. The angular clock hands and classic-leaning clock face protect this personality piece from becoming gimmicky or childish, and it instead remains sophisticated and tasteful.
Sometimes the most retro styles can feel the most futuristic. This atomic clock from old faithful timepiece maker Sharp resets regularly by radio-control, due to a built-in receiver that communicates by WWVB radio broadcast by the US Government’s National Institute. But its clever functionality doesn’t sacrifice style—the chrome frame and modern clock design make it a modern home decor item, as well as a nostalgic-feeling timepiece.
This silent, black wall clock is proof that the color palette of your kindergarten classroom can grow up alongside you. The name is a nod to the Italian word for “setbacks,” and the clock is meant to provide a little levity during the day’s tougher moments. Made of 100% recycled materials, it only requires one 1.5V battery (which is included) to get it kicking.