In a world where every second counts, the allure of slowing down to admire craftsmanship that intertwines history with luxury is rare. This is the essence of Tiffany & Co.’s latest horological masterpiece, the Airways Airplane Clock, crafted in collaboration with the esteemed Swiss clockmaker L’Epee. This clock is not merely a device to tell time; it is a portal to the past, evoking the golden age of aviation and celebrating a time when flying was as much about adventure as it was about arriving.
Have you ever felt the thrill of watching an old movie where the roar of propeller engines sets the stage for high-flying adventure? The Airways Airplane Clock captures this sentiment, transforming it into a physical form that sparks nostalgia and awe. Inspired by the daring spirit of 1930s aviation, before the world was engulfed in the shadows of World War II, this clock redefines what a timepiece can be.
Fashioned from aluminum and coated in Tiffany’s signature blue, the clock resembles a vintage airplane, complete with functional wheels that mimic a traditional landing gear system. This design not only stabilizes the clock but also enhances its authenticity and charm. The front of the airplane, or the ‘nose’, houses the time display – large, rotating stainless steel discs that show the hours and minutes, ingeniously integrating the technical with the visual.
The cockpit of the airplane, fashioned into a cage that ends in an arrow, points directly at the current time, a design both functional and filled with whimsy. On the tail wing, a “TCO” monogram proudly signifies the collaboration, while the nose of the plane is elegantly engraved with Tiffany & Co., standing as a hallmark of luxury and exclusivity.
But how does one interact with such a clock? The Airways Airplane Clock incorporates a fascinating mechanical interaction: the movement is wound by rotating the engine counterclockwise, while rotating it clockwise sets the time. This tactile engagement with the clock is not just about functionality – it’s about forming a connection with the mechanism, much like a pilot would with his aircraft.
The clock’s dimensions – 14 inches long, 17.4 inches wide, and 10.6 inches high – along with its weight of 6.6 pounds, make it a substantial piece, embodying the solidity and presence of the era it represents. With an eight-day power reserve, the clock stands as a testament to enduring engineering, reminiscent of the time when flights were a novelty and every departure was a spectacle.
Available exclusively at select Tiffany & Co. flagship stores worldwide, the Airways Airplane Clock is more than just a keeper of time. It is a collector’s dream, a decorative masterpiece, and a narrative piece that tells a story of a bygone era. Why do we cherish these links to the past? Perhaps it is because in their craftsmanship, in their beauty, we find a timeless connection to the human spirit of adventure and discovery. This clock isn’t just about telling time – it’s about remembering a time when time itself was a journey. Also be sure to check RIMOWA x Tiffany & Co. luxury travel collection
