Full Nelson
The Mid-Century Modernist has a great article posted on the many varieties of table clocks designed by George Nelson and his studio. Some of these pieces are among the most playful clock designs I've ever seen, and are a great testament to how designers can have fun with their work and still deliver a highly aesthetic product. With auction prices ranging from $500 to over $10,000, however, I think I'll need to keep my fingers crossed and continue looking for them in thrift shops and garage sales.
- 12.21.09
Scott commented: I wasn't aware, Antay. Thanks for the heads-up. I'm typically pretty outspoken about my disdain for MCM "reissues" ... but in this case I'm torn between wanting to buy one of the Target desk clocks and hating Target for not being able to leave another great MCM design well enough alone and concentrating on contemporary designers instead.
Have you seen the Target reissues in person? If so, what were your impressions of their quality?
- 12.28.09
- Website
Dawn commented: Scott, re : your comment to Antay about being torn: I completely understand your dilemma, lol. What to do? If you see the piece in person and you are impressed enough to spend the cash for it, then buy it. If not, let it go. All stuff looks good on paper, lol, but in person it may be an entirely different situation. Does it move you? Will you have it for a few years or wake up one day soon and say, "Why did I buy that?" Does it have resale value? I thought Target pieces were issued only for a short time and then discontinued, as they move on to featuring the next "big thing" in fashion, like the whole Asian/Yoga design movement of the early 2000s. To a younger generation, these issues might be collectibe in 10 or 20 years.
Some great design is just timeless (no pun intended) and even a remake can be a stunning addition if placed correctly in your room.
I do love the piece in the pic and it is orange, after all! Was this piece duplicated by Tar-jay?
- 1.8.10
Scott commented: I think that's solid advice, Dawn. I'm not tempted to buy any of the Target repros based on the photos on the Target website. At this point (after seeing the new releases from Vitra) I even doubt I'd bite if I saw them in a Target store.
The example in the photo is vintage, and wasn't reproduced, as far as I know. It's pre-sale estimate at Wright was $2,000 to $3,000.
- 1.8.10
- Website
Antay Bilgutay commented: Did you know that Target seems to have formed an unholy alliance with George Nelson's estate and is selling new, license wall and desk clocks? They are nowhere near as elegant as the designs that Mid-Century Modernist shows, but they are affordable. Check them out.