Zeitgeist: A Clock That Captures the Spirit of Modernity

Designer Dmitry Pogorelov's Award-Winning Timepiece Merges High-Tech Materials and Advanced Technologies

The inspiration behind Zeitgeist was the concept of time itself and the role of design in showcasing the functionality and possibilities of modern technologies. Pogorelov chose a clock as the base of his concept to represent this idea. The clock's design is provocative, sophisticated, and reflects the rapid development of technology. The absence of a central part signifies the replacement of the classical clock mechanism with innovative LED indication. The use of carbon in the clock epitomizes high-tech, and its combination with polished metal enhances this feeling. Small light dots give the product a refined look.

The realization of the Zeitgeist clock involved the use of three plies of twill carbon fabric formed by infusion technology for the plastic part. The plastic edge is fully hidden in a metal frame made from titanium. The LED lights are controlled by a built-in computer, and holes on the front plastic surface are milled by laser with liquid nitrogen cooling. For proper light distribution, a matted transparent material is placed under the holes. The clock is powered by an accumulator battery.

The technical specifications of the Zeitgeist clock include an outer diameter of 406.4 mm, an inner diameter of 210 mm, and a depth of 80 mm. The plastic thickness is 1 mm, and the light holes have a diameter of 0.8 mm. The dimensions were chosen to be as close to a standard metallic tube as possible and to optimize visual perception.

Operating the Zeitgeist clock is straightforward. On the front panel, there are “hours” and “minutes” indications which light alternately. The backlight changes intensity depending on lighting conditions, thanks to a built-in light sensor. Time is set using two buttons on the back side.

The design process for the Zeitgeist clock started in November 2013 and ended in February 2014. The top-priority goal was to create an honest design, devoid of fakery and showcasing the high-tech nature of the product. The sizes of the holes and intervals between them were empirically verified to be undetectable from afar and conspicuous when lit. The lit holes on the dark field of carbon are reminiscent of jewelry as well as high technology.

The Zeitgeist clock was designed for limited production, intended as gifts for affluent guests and clients of the company. The use of high-tech materials and advanced technologies demonstrates the capabilities of modern industry and design. The clock reflects the zeitgeist, associated with smart, tech, and durable materials. The high-tech face of the product is represented by a semi torus carbon body and time display (light holes). The soft backlight can be adjusted to the owner's favorite color, and a light sensor monitors the strength of illumination.