What is a sunburst clock?

A sunburst clock is a wall clock that features a round face surrounded by spokes of wood or metal. This design resembles a shining sun. George Nelson Associates gets credit for designing the first one for the Howard Miller Clock Company in 1950, but many other creators have introduced their own versions over the years. Shop a collection of sunburst clocks on 1stDibs.

When were starburst clocks popular?

Starburst clocks first became popular in the 1950s. Also called the sunburst clock, these wall clocks have circular faces surrounded by wood or metal spokes that resemble sun rays. The original design for this clock was developed in the late 1940s. The Ball clock — a starburst-shaped assemblage of lollipop-like brass spokes capped with lacquered birch orbs, playfully mismatched hands and absolutely no numerals — was the first of more than 150 clock models conceived in the New York City offices of legendary writer, architect and furniture maker George Nelson. Find a collection of starburst clocks on 1stDibs.

Sunburst Clocks

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Sunburst Clocks For Sale on 1stDibs

At 1stDibs, there are several options of sunburst clocks available for sale. The range of distinct sunburst clocks — often made from metal, brass and wood — can elevate any home. Find 178 antique and vintage sunburst clocks at 1stDibs now, or shop our selection of 4 modern versions for a more contemporary example of this long-cherished furniture. Sunburst clocks have long been popular, with older editions for sale from the 18th Century and newer versions made as recently as the 21st Century. There are many kinds of sunburst clocks to choose from, but at 1stDibs, mid-century modern, Louis XVI and Art Deco sunburst clocks are of considerable interest. Many sunburst clocks are appealing in their simplicity, but Junghans Uhren GmbH, George Nelson and Howard Miller produced popular sunburst clocks that are worth a look.

How Much are Sunburst Clocks?

Prices for sunburst clocks can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — at 1stDibs, sunburst clocks begin at $115 and can go as high as $173,813, while the average can fetch as much as $2,800.

Finding the Right Clocks for You

A sophisticated clock design, whether it’s a desk clock, mantel clock or large wall clock for your living room, is a decorative object to be admired in your home as much as it is a necessary functional element. This is part of the reason clocks make such superb collectibles. Given the versatility of these treasured fixtures — they’ve long been made in a range of shapes, sizes and styles — a clock can prove integral to your own particular interior decor.

Antique and vintage clocks can whisk us back to the 18th and 19th centuries. When most people think of antique clocks, they imagine an Art Deco Bakelite tabletop clock or wall clock, named for the revolutionary synthetic plastic, Bakelite, of which they’re made, or a stately antique grandfather clock. But the art of clock-making goes way back, transcending continents and encompassing an entire range of design styles and technologies. In short, there are many kinds of clocks depending on your needs.

A variety of wall clocks can be found on 1stDibs. A large antique hand-carved walnut wall clock is best suited to a big room and a flat background given what will likely be outwardly sculptural features, while Georgian grandfather clocks, or longcase clocks, will help welcome rainswept guests into your entryway or foyer. An interactive cuckoo clock, large or small, is guaranteed to bring outsize personality to your living room or dining room. For conversation pieces of a similar breed, mid-century modern enthusiasts go for the curious Ball clock, the first of more than 150 clock models conceived in the studio of legendary architect and designer George Nelson.

Minimalist contemporary clocks and books pair nicely on a shelf, but an eye-catching vintage mantel clock can add balance to your home library while drawing attention to your art and design books and other decorative objects. Ormolu clocks dating from the Louis XVI period, designed in the neoclassical style, are often profusely ornate, featuring architectural flourishes and rich naturalistic details. Rococo-style mantel clocks of Meissen porcelain or porcelain originating from manufacturers in cities such as Limoges, France, during the 18th and 19th centuries, exude an air of imperial elegance on your shelves or side tables and can help give your desk a 19th-century upgrade.

On 1stDibs, find a range of extraordinary antique and vintage clocks today.

Questions About Sunburst Clocks

What is a sunburst clock?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 31, 2023
A sunburst clock is a wall clock that features a round face surrounded by spokes of wood or metal. This design resembles a shining sun. George Nelson Associates gets credit for designing the first one for the Howard Miller Clock Company in 1950, but many other creators have introduced their own versions over the years. Shop a collection of sunburst clocks on 1stDibs.
When were starburst clocks popular?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
Starburst clocks first became popular in the 1950s. Also called the sunburst clock, these wall clocks have circular faces surrounded by wood or metal spokes that resemble sun rays. The original design for this clock was developed in the late 1940s. The Ball clock — a starburst-shaped assemblage of lollipop-like brass spokes capped with lacquered birch orbs, playfully mismatched hands and absolutely no numerals — was the first of more than 150 clock models conceived in the New York City offices of legendary writer, architect and furniture maker George Nelson. Find a collection of starburst clocks on 1stDibs.