The Vulcain 'TWA Flight Center' Desk Clock
Vulcain’s Tribute to the Jet Age: The TWA Flight Center Desk Clock
Vulcain is reissuing the iconic clock from the TWA terminal at JFK Airport, an architectural masterpiece of 1960s modernist design by Eero Saarinen. This new version, a reinterpretation as a compact desk clock, faithfully replicates the original form with a 316L stainless steel body and an iridescent warm light grey finish.
For Guillaume Laidet, few objects encapsulate the jet age and its boundless promise as vividly as the Vulcain clock that graced the ceiling of the TWA Flight Center: “Bringing it back is a tribute to the ‘Jet Age’ aesthetic that still captivates and inspires. The moment I saw the clock, there was no hesitation.”
Le Locle, September 26th, 2024
The TWA Flight Center, a designated historic landmark at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport, stands as a beacon of mid-century modernism. Inaugurated in 1962, this architectural marvel, crafted from reinforced concrete with its fluid, organic curves, was designed by Finnish-American architect Eero Saarinen. The building's roof, evocative of a bird in flight, perfectly captures the spirit of the Jet Age and a hint of googie design – a time when technological optimism soared alongside advancements in aviation and space exploration. Fully restored in 2019, the TWA Flight Center was reborn as the luxury TWA Hotel, preserving the grandeur and legacy of this iconic terminal.
As you step into this cathedral of air travel, your attention is immediately drawn to the TWA Hotel’s magnificent check-in counter, complete with a retro-styled departures and arrivals board that, despite its nostalgic appearance, provides up-to-date flight information. The staff, outfitted in period-appropriate attire, complete the immersive experience. But as you look up… Vulcain has a surprise for you!
The Vulcain Clock – then as now, a timeless jewel
Suspended from the terminal’s soaring vaulted ceilings, the majestic three-sided Vulcain clock hovers above the bustling lobby, an iconic element of the décor – not part of Saarinen’s original design, it was added shortly after the terminal opened in 1962. During the meticulous restoration of the TWA Flight Center, this historic clock was carefully preserved, ensuring it remains a central feature of the hotel’s architectural splendor. Today, the Vulcain clock continues to mark the passage of time in the lobby of the TWA Hotel, a lasting symbol of the terminal’s rich history and mid-century modernist charm.
TWA Hotel in New York
The mystery of how Vulcain came to be selected as the purveyor of this unique clock for TWA remains unsolved. Although no definitive documentation links it directly to the brand’s renowned Cricket watch – often called ‘the watch of presidents’—a connection seems likely. Introduced in 1947, the Vulcain Cricket gained fame as the timepiece of choice for several U.S. presidents, starting with Harry Truman. This reputation for reliability and prestige may well have influenced the decision to feature Vulcain at such a significant location as the TWA Flight Center.
The Return of an Icon: The TWA Clock in Compact Form
On September 26th, 2024, Vulcain reintroduces the iconic TWA terminal clock as a sleek desk clock, blending historical signi ficance with modern design. Measuring 12.6 cm in height and 8.3 cm in diameter, this compact version is perfect for a desk or table, bringing a touch of Jet Age glamour to contemporary interiors.
I came across a photo of the clock in a New York Times article about 1960s design by Anders Modig. Instantly, I knew there was no better way to honor this remarkable period in history than to bring back this clock,” says Guillaume Laidet.
This reissue celebrates the Jet Age legacy and Saarinen’s visionary architecture, reinforcing Vulcain’s status as an iconic brand of the era. The clock is crafted from 316L stainless steel, known for its durability and corrosion resistance. Its iridescent warm light grey finish, in Pantone 2323 U, adds a subtle yet sophisticated touch to the design.
Unlike the original suspended clock with its three dials facing outward, this table version aligns its dials in the opposite direction. Each dial, featuring a sunburst light grey color, is marked by black indices, hands, and the Vulcain logo, ensuring optimal readability. The three dials display different time zones, a practical feature for globetrotters or professionals working across time zones.
Powered by three RONDA 712 quartz movements, renowned for their precision and reliability, this clock exemplifies Vulcain’s commitment to horological excellence.
With this reissue, Vulcain not only pays homage to the Jet Age and Saarinen’s groundbreaking design but also offers a timeless piece that enhances any modern interior
Technical specifications
Vulcain "TWA Flight Center" Table Clock
Reference: VUL-CLOCK-01
Case
- Material: 316L stainless steel
- Color: Pantone 2323 U – warm light grey
- Total Height: 126 mm
- Clock Diameter: 83 mm
- Case Back: 316L stainless steel
- Dial: Sunburst, silvered
- Functions: 2 hands – hours, minutes
- Movement: 3 x RONDA 712 quartz analog display
MSRP
- CHF 1190 / EUR 1290 / USD 1300 / GBP 1110
For more information, please visir vulcain.ch
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