Some people say it looks like a giant eyeball that transforms into a flower or beetle when opened. The Orb by L’Epee 1839 and MB&F is certainly a uniquely designed clock. It was designed by the German designer Maximilian Maertens. The clock is composed of four elytra that open like the wings of the beetle. It is limited to just 100 pieces – 50 in black and 50 in white. Its price? Approximately $30,000 per piece.
The Orb is a much more intricate than might appear on first sight. It contains two barrels and over 300 components with 17 jewels. The 1.9kg clock features 165 parts. One barrel of the clock is for the time and the other is for the striking of the hours that are wound separately. The striking can be repeated via a button or turned on and off if needed. It is entirely manufactured in-house by L’Epee 1839. The process starts with a single, solid block of aluminum which is carved into the perfect sphere. Once the carving process is completed, it is covered in four layers of lacquer to give it a unique finish. Thereafter, the four elytra with torque hinges are added to the sphere. When closed, the elytra are held in place by four small magnets.
The Orb, placed on its stand or “saucer” – doesn’t roll away and can be placed on a night stand or table. It can be displayed with the four elytra closed, one open, two open, three open or all four open. There are still a number of clocks available online. L’Epee doesn’t disclose the number of units that have already been sold, so if you want to get one, you better be quick!
Images courtesy of L’Epee 1839
