Math Clock "Albert Clock" Original – Wood · 33 cm | Albert Clock

Sale price€399,00

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Housing: walnut
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Description

ALBERT CLOCK · Axel Schindlbeck

What time is it? Work it out.

The Albert Clock Wood does not show the time — it makes you calculate it. Designed by Axel Schindlbeck as a graduation project at the Stuttgart Academy of Art, handcrafted by the family workshop Zimmermann Uhrengehäuse GmbH in Bavaria, Germany, and sold at the MoMA Design Store New York: this LED wall and desk clock replaces digits with math equations, turning every glance into an involuntary mental workout. Named after Albert Einstein, launched via Kickstarter in 2015 with €75,000 raised in under one month against a €23,000 goal, and now present in 10,000+ homes across 37+ countries — including the permanent collection of the Museum of the Future in Dubai.

Made in Bavaria · MoMA Design Store New York · 6 difficulty levels · Wall & desk mounting included
Dimensions33 × 17 × 5 cm
Weight2.2 kg
HousingOiled solid wood (Walnut or Oak), MDF, acrylic
Display15-segment LED (Osram), readable in direct sunlight
Power110V/220V universal power supply (mains only, no battery)
Cable3 m, black nylon braided
Scope of deliveryClock, 3 m cable, wall mounting system, EU & US plug adapters
OriginZimmermann Uhrengehäuse GmbH, Bavaria, Germany
Time display12h / 24h selectable
Levels6 difficulty · 6 speed · 6 brightness

The Wood edition is available in two variants: Walnut — dark, warm, and visually commanding — and Oak — lighter, open-grained, and quietly Scandinavian. Both are finished with oil rather than lacquer, which keeps the wood grain alive and allows the surface to develop a natural patina over time.

“Elegant to look at, a clever everyday novelty, exceptionally well-made.” — Euronics. “The stark difference from cheap plastic gadgets out of China is immediately apparent.” — Euronics. “This clock (supposedly made for kids) cracks me up.” — Boing Boing.

Can I use the Albert Clock without solving any math?

Yes. Level 0 displays normal time — just the hour and minute as numbers, no equation required. From there, six difficulty settings take you from simple addition and subtraction all the way to combined multiplication and division. The clock adapts to you: start at level 0 and move up whenever it feels right.

Walnut or Oak — which wood should I choose?

Both are oiled solid wood, handcrafted at Zimmermann Uhrengehäuse GmbH in Bavaria. Walnut is darker and richer — it commands a wall and pairs well with leather, brass, and warm-toned interiors. Oak is lighter and more neutral — it integrates into Scandinavian, Japandi, and bright modern settings without demanding attention. If in doubt: Walnut makes a stronger visual statement; Oak fits almost any room.

From what age does the Albert Clock make sense?

At levels 1–2, with simple addition and subtraction, it works well from around age 6 or 7. Boing Boing called it “supposedly made for kids” — but adults consistently report using it as a daily mental sharpener without it ever feeling like exercise. The no-repeat algorithm ensures every equation is uniquely generated, so it stays genuinely unpredictable at any age.

Is the Albert Clock a good gift for someone who doesn’t like math?

Possibly the best one. At level 0 it is simply a beautifully made wooden clock. At level 1 it is low-key and pleasant. The clever part is what happens after a few days: people who “don’t do math” find themselves solving equations instinctively before they have time to object. One user put it perfectly: “It constantly tempts me to master small challenges.” The clock teaches without announcing that it is teaching.

Does the Albert Clock run on batteries?

No. The Albert Clock runs exclusively on mains power. A 3 m black nylon braided cable and a 110V/220V universal power supply are included, together with EU and US plug adapters. The cable gives solid reach, but you will need a socket within range of your chosen wall or shelf position. There is no battery mode.

Can the Albert Clock Wood be used as both a wall clock and a desk clock?

Yes. The clock includes a wall mounting system and also stands freely on a desk or shelf without additional accessories. At 33 × 17 × 5 cm, it fits comfortably on most surfaces without dominating them. The 3 m cable gives you flexibility in either configuration.

How does the difficulty and speed system work?

Six difficulty levels control the complexity of the equation: Level 0 shows normal time; levels 1–2 use addition and subtraction; levels 3–4 add multiplication and division; levels 5–6 combine multiple operations. Separately, six speed levels set how frequently the equation refreshes per minute — slower speeds give more time to solve before the display moves on. Six brightness levels plus an automatic day/night mode complete the control set.

Where is the Albert Clock Wood made?

The oiled wood housing is handcrafted by Zimmermann Uhrengehäuse GmbH, a family-owned workshop in Bavaria, Germany. The electronics and software were developed by Axel Schindlbeck and Fred Mauclere; the company behind the product is MNTNT, based in Paris, founded in 2014. Euronics reviewers noticed it immediately: “The team placed great value on handcraftsmanship — which explains and justifies the price.”

The Albert Clock Wood. For the wall of someone who likes to think — or for anyone ready to start. Curated by Charles & Marie.

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