Flip clock - Copal Space Age Plastic - 1960-1970 - 24-Hr-Day-Functional

COPAL Flip Clock Model 229 – 24-Hour Display – Day of the Week – Made in Japan
Authentic vintage Copal flip clock model 229, made in Japan, featuring a 24-hour display with Dutch day-of-the-week indication. A well-balanced example of Japanese electromechanical flip clock design from the late 1960s–1970s.
The clock features a distinctive Space Age–inspired horizontal form, with a low-profile rectangular body, softened edges, and an integrated front viewing window. The elongated silhouette and functional side controls reflect the futuristic design language of the era, combining industrial logic with clean, minimalist aesthetics.
Dimensions: 19 cm width × 8 cm height × 8 cm depth
Serial number: 118866
Original European plug.
Condition & Functionality
The clock is fully functional and tested.
Video available at the following link:
https://youtu.be/FLxj1_LwovM
Accurate timekeeping
Smooth and correct flip action for hours and minutes
Day-of-the-week mechanism fully working, with the change occurring between 00:12 and 00:16, which is correct and typical for this Copal movement
Buzzer alarm fully functional
Internal illumination present and working, providing night-time readability
The case is finished in vintage white and shows no cracks, no breaks, and no structural damage.
Mechanical & Electrical Construction
The clock is built around a high-quality Copal electromechanical movement, known for reliability and long-term stability.
Original Copal 50H synchronous motor, rated AC 220V / 50Hz
Precision metal gear train with brass elements for controlled torque and accurate indexing
Dual flip drums for hours and minutes, plus a dedicated mechanical module for the day-of-the-week
Solid chromated steel chassis and metal supports ensuring alignment and durability
The alarm system uses a mechanical buzzer unit, actuated by a cam-and-lever mechanism connected to the main movement, producing a clear and period-correct sound.
Electrical Components & Originality
Original DAIEI power cable
Original internal wiring and suppression capacitor
Original internal light bulb, fully operational
All components are original, untouched, and period-correct
Preservation Notes
The plastic case shows natural age-related ageing inherent to vintage plastic materials, resulting in a gentle, even tone consistent with the period.
No whitening agents, bleaching treatments, or aggressive chemical cleaning have been applied, as these processes can weaken vintage plastic over time. The clock has been intentionally preserved in its authentic condition.
Minor signs of age are consistent with the period and confirm originality.
The clock has been tested over several days and will be tested again prior to shipment.The item offered is original, vintage, and pre-owned, and is described accurately and in good faith.
Before listing, the item is carefully cleaned, tested, and documented with detailed photographs and, where applicable, a video showing its actual condition and functionality. All functions mentioned in the description are tested and verified and are tested again before shipment as a final quality check.
Photographs and any accompanying video form an integral part of the description and accurately represent the condition of the item at the time of listing.
As this is a vintage item, minor signs of age and normal wear are to be expected and are consistent with its age. Any structural damage, missing parts, or non-functioning features are clearly disclosed in the description and/or visible in the images. Colours may vary slightly due to lighting conditions and screen settings.
The item will be professionally packed using protective materials and double-boxed where appropriate. Shipping is tracked and insured. The item is handed over to the carrier in the same condition as documented prior to dispatch.
The buyer is responsible for providing a correct shipping address and for collecting the parcel within the carrier’s specified timeframe. In case of non-collection, refusal of delivery, or incorrect address, Catawiki’s applicable procedures and conditions will apply.
By placing a bid, the buyer confirms that they have carefully read the description and reviewed all images.
This is a vintage electronic item. Due to its age and original components, slight variations in performance, accuracy, or behaviour may occur over time, even if fully functional at the time of testing. All stated functions have been tested and verified at the time of listing and again before shipment.
The item has not been modified unless explicitly stated and is intended for normal use consistent with its age, or for collection and display.