Nucleus

Designer: Danny Duquemin-Sheil

Materials: Steel, rubber, styrene and quartz movement

The unassuming appearance of this desk clock disguises its considerable weight and simple construction. The pitted ‘Martian-like’ sphere appears to have simply had a smooth slice taken from it, revealing the distinct white hands and markings of this peculiar artefact.

It consists of a solid steel ball and laser-cut face plate, both chemically blackened. Sitting on a chunky O-ring allows it to be positioned at any viewing angle. The battery-powered quartz movement is hidden within, and can be ejected for adjustment from the back.

Mainly intended for use on decorative ironwork, when taken out of context the forged steel ball is given new life. The axially symmetrical recess for containing the clock elements is machined on the metal lathe; a clearly-defined void is established in a previously random object. When combined with precision components and subtly coated, this crude lump of metal is delicately re-appropriated.