Klapklok makes paying more for less resolution justifiable.
If you’ve ever been captivated by the rhythmic clicks and whirs of a split-flap display, then Miniot’s Klapklok will strike a nostalgic chord. Reminiscent of the charmingly analog train and flight departure boards that once populated bustling terminals, this unique wall clock combines vintage aesthetics with modern technology, creating a timepiece that’s as much a piece of art as it is a clock.
Miniot, the family-run business known for handcrafting beautiful yet functional home technology, has reimagined timekeeping with Klapklok. Each minute change is punctuated by the shuffling of mechanical flaps, producing a sound that transports you to the golden age of split-flap displays. As the flaps dance, they don’t just tell time; they create a soft rustling that brings a sense of calm and rhythm to your day.
A Clock That Moves Like Pixels, Sounds Like the Past
Klapklok is as much about the experience as it is about functionality. At its core, it’s a high-resolution, low-tech clock, displaying hours and minutes with “paper-like” flaps designed to mimic black-and-white pixels. These 69 individual flaps — thoughtfully crafted for a nostalgic look — shift to convey time in what Miniot describes as a “pixelated” form. Every 2.5 minutes, a selection of flaps shift to reflect the progression of the minute and hour hands, while at the top of each hour, all 69 flaps whirl into action simultaneously. This creates what Miniot fondly calls “the gentlest cuckoo clock you’ve ever heard.” It’s a delightful performance that doesn’t just mark the passage of time but brings a tactile charm into your space.
And it’s not just a clock. Through its Bluetooth-connected app, Klapklok invites creativity by allowing you to create simple pixel drawings on its surface. Whether you want to make a smiley face, a heart, or your initials, Klapklok offers more than just the time — it offers you a platform for personal expression, too.
Art Meets Engineering: Designed with Precision and Purpose
Miniot’s attention to detail isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s also about engineering finesse. The clock itself is a compact marvel at 17.7 inches (45 cm) wide and just half an inch (13 mm) thick, making it look almost like a thin, elegant “squircle” mounted on your wall. Powered by a USB-C connection, it’s low-energy and surprisingly silent when at rest. There’s no light emitted when the flaps are still, meaning Klapklok fits right in with any decor, blending smoothly into the background — until it’s time to announce the next hour.
The smooth, hypnotic shuffling of flaps is only possible thanks to a meticulous arrangement of small spools, magnets, and hinges, each piece hand-assembled with precision in Peter Kolkman’s home workshop. This small family-run company has an intimate history with each product they create. Kolkman and his family have dedicated countless hours to perfecting every mechanism, much like they did for their previous masterpiece, the Wheel record player, which gained acclaim for playing vinyl records vertically.
The Sensory Appeal: Sight, Sound, and Style in One
Seeing Klapklok in motion is mesmerizing, but for many, it’s the sound that truly makes the experience. There’s a gentle rustle as the clock’s “pixels” shuffle to display the new time, providing a peaceful, ambient background noise that has a uniquely grounding quality. It’s a sound that you may not consciously notice after a while, yet it becomes part of your space, gently reminding you of the passage of time. Unlike digital clocks that beep or light up, Klapklok’s soundscape is understated — subtle, timeless, and deeply nostalgic.
When the clock is idle, its silence is complete. With no ticking, no LED lights, and minimal power consumption, it’s the quiet companion your home never knew it needed. In fact, the clock is only active for brief intervals as it switches between times, ensuring minimal energy use while preserving the device for years to come.
Limited Edition, Handmade, and Truly Unique
Given the intricate craftsmanship and hours of labor that go into each Klapklok, it’s not surprising that this timepiece comes with a price tag. Each clock is carefully assembled by hand, and Miniot is initially releasing a limited batch of only 25 units. This exclusive first batch is currently offered at a special pre-order price of €1,800 (approximately $1,950) — a significant reduction from the anticipated retail price of €2,400 (about $2,600). These first units are set to ship in time for the holiday season, arriving by December 12th, just in time to become the centerpiece of any nostalgic collector’s home.
A Timeless Choice for Today’s World
Klapklok isn’t just a clock; it’s an experience. It celebrates the beauty of time’s passage, blending modern technology with a nostalgic nod to the past. In an age dominated by silent digital screens and battery-driven precision, Klapklok offers something different: a sensory return to a simpler, more tactile experience of time.
For those who value craftsmanship, artistry, and a dash of nostalgia, Klapklok promises to be a timekeeper like no other. This blend of sight, sound, and technology is rare — and Miniot has truly created something timeless.
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