Clocks, in general, have a rather singular purpose: to tell time. No matter their form or improvements, these devices have been completing the same basic function since their invention. But what if you want your clock to do something more—to tie into a hobby you love, and to make you excited to look at your timepiece every day? With the creation of the Author Clock, the imaginative minds at Author & Co. have provided what I think is the perfect solution.
A tried-and-true bibliophile, I have collected more books (and book-themed items) than I can count. I have my favorites, of course—few things are more comforting than diving back into a well-worn novel—but exploration is also part of the fun. And with 13,000 quotes in its library, Author & Co. offers both on a daily basis.
How does this work? Passages mentioning a minute on the 12-hour or 24-hour clock are pulled from the works of a wide array of authors, including Jane Austen, Oscar Wilde, Margaret Atwood, and James Baldwin. Quotes that match the (exact or vague, depending on your chosen settings) time of day are then pulled from the library at random to be displayed on the screen at an interval of your choosing. That is, any time between every minute to every hour. At longer intervals, the time will still change every 60 seconds, but the quote will not. Personally, I prefer the quote to change with the time, even though it does mean the battery needs to be charged more often.
The library is also updated regularly, and as long as your clock is connected to WiFi, these updates will be installed automatically, adding new quotes for you to spot and enjoy. It is important to note, however, that WiFi is not actually required for your clock to function.
Now, onto a more serious question: How will this clock fit into your household decor? The answer: perfectly. With an oak frame, brass hardware, and black bezel, this literary device functions as not just a useful and fun tool, but also an attractive accessory. The foot keeps it stable on flat surfaces, and the dial, to my delight, clicks rather satisfyingly when used.
There are two versions of the clock available, and where you want to place this device will determine which one you choose. The smaller Version 1 is 4.3 inches—perfect for display on a shelf or a side table. But for those who would prefer a wall clock, Version 2 is nearly twice as large at 7.8 inches, and features both a removable brass foot and a wall-mounting hole.
As an added benefit, if you like a good box, then you’re in for a treat, because it’s not just the clock itself that’s well-designed. The packaging can also serve as a display piece, crafted to resemble a fabric-bound book. My suggestion? Keep the charging cord carefully wrapped up inside the box, so you always know where it is, and stick it on your bookshelf.
Of course, a clock is more than just looks—it also has to work. And the Author Clock does so with ease. Setup is a quick and straightforward process, particularly when done on your phone. Users are given a surprising array of options, including font types and sizes, as well as whether explicit quotes will be included. A battery icon appears when the clock needs to be charged, or you can simply leave the clock plugged in. Unfortunately, the screen is not lit, nor does the clock have an alarm, but both are minor gripes, particularly if this literary device is placed in a communal room or office instead of a bedroom.
In short, for those who can never have enough of a good book, the Author Clock is the perfect addition to your home. With options in everything from device size and placement to screen appearance, it’s the work of moments to turn your clock into a perfectly customized accessory. And with so many quotes in Author & Co.’s library, it’s easier than ever to get inspired to start a new reading adventure. So if you want to bring a little literary magic into your home, visit Author & Co.’s website HERE to take a closer look at their offerings.
