Flip clock - Heurovision Space Age Plastic - 1950-1960 - Mechanical Spring Driven

Heurovision Mechanical Flip Clock / Alarm Clock – Made in Japan – 1960s – Space Age Design
This mechanical flip clock alarm by Heurovision, Made in Japan, reference No. 16505, dates to the 1960s, within the early Space Age period.
The dating to the 1960s is consistent with the fully mechanical spring-driven construction, the cam-controlled flip mechanism, the typography of the flip cards, and the early plastic case material, all characteristic of Japanese precision clockmaking during this transitional era between traditional horology and modern industrial design.
A video demonstrating the clock in operation and showing the movement can be viewed here:
https://youtu.be/JYBZLpt1CkM
Mechanical construction and quality
The clock is powered by a fully mechanical, spring-driven movement, requiring no batteries and no electricity.
The construction includes:
A traditional gear train with escapement
A cam-operated hour jump mechanism
Mechanical flip cards for hours and minutes
A friction-regulated hour wheel, allowing precise alignment of the hour indication without stressing the movement
The movement has been inspected and all looks ok and all moves well indeed,
ut keeps time very well, and the flip action of the cards is smooth, progressive and precise.
The power reserve is approximately one day per full winding, which is correct and typical for this type of mechanical flip clock.
This construction places the clock above standard consumer alarm clocks, reflecting a serious mechanical and horological approach, rather than cost-driven mass production.
The white flip cards feature clean, sans-serif numerals with balanced proportions and excellent legibility.
These numerals are commonly referred to by collectors as “Copal-style numerals”.
This term does not indicate a Copal-branded product, but rather a recognised Japanese typographic standard used during the late 1950s and early 1960s by several high-quality manufacturers.
This style is characterised by:
Uniform stroke width
Absence of decorative elements
Instrument-like clarity and functional design
Such numerals are typical of early Japanese mechanical flip clocks and are appreciated for their readability and technical aesthetic.
The case features a distinctive early Space Age silhouette, with a rounded, aerodynamic form and compact proportions suitable for desk or bedside use.
The colour can be described as brown / beige.
Please note that colour tones may vary slightly depending on lighting conditions, screen settings, and the natural ageing of the plastic over time.
Minor shade variations are normal for vintage plastic objects.
Condition
Completely functional
No cracks or structural damage
Only light surface marks consistent with age, visible mainly under close inspection
Clean interior and exterior
Flip cards intact, well aligned, and operating correctly
The clock has been carefully serviced and preserved.
Dimensions and weight
Width: approx. 13.5 cm
Height: approx. 9 cm
Depth: approx. 8.5 cm
Weight: approx. 380 g
For best results and to reduce mechanical stress, it is recommended to set the time when the mainspring is fully discharged.
The time should always be adjusted slowly and only forwards.
When setting, it is advisable to position the flip cards approximately one minute ahead of the desired time, then wind the clock and allow it to run.
If necessary, the time can then be fine-adjusted by advancing the display by one or two minutes, always gently.
This method helps ensure smooth operation and correct synchronization of the mechanical flip mechanism.
By placing a bid, the buyer confirms that they have carefully read the full description and reviewed all images, which form an integral part of the listing.
The item offered is original, vintage, and pre-owned, and is described accurately and in good faith.
This is a vintage mechanical 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 are checked again prior to shipment.
Time and alarm should always be set gently and in the correct direction, and the flip cards should never be forced.
The item will be carefully packed with appropriate protective materials, suitable for a vintage mechanical clock.
The buyer is responsible for providing a correct shipping address and for collecting the parcel within the carrier’s specified timeframe.
In the event of non-collection, refusal of delivery, or an incorrect address, Catawiki’s applicable procedures and conditions will apply.
Vintage mechanical clocks are purchased for their historical, mechanical and design value, and are not comparable to modern quartz devices.
VMJ Vintage remains available at the end of the auction to answer any reasonable questions.