Timer Mechanical - JAZ - Vintage Polystyrene - 1970-1980 - Mechanical Kitchen

JAZ TEMPIC – Philippe Charbonneaux Heritage Design – Mechanical Kitchen Timer with Original Box – France, circa 1970–1971

This elegant JAZ TEMPIC kitchen timer represents the second generation of one of the most iconic French industrial design objects of the late 1960s and early 1970s.
Introduced in the 1970/71 JAZ catalogue, this updated version features the distinctive light grey and white dial, a refined aesthetic compared to the earlier model, and is equipped with the JAZ CZ mechanical movement. Production was simplified to only three variants, all housed in the characteristic white polystyrene body.

The original TEMPIC became famous thanks to the vision of renowned French industrial designer Philippe Charbonneaux, celebrated for his contributions to automotive and industrial design. His innovative work earned the TEMPIC the prestigious Bronze Medal of the Société d’Encouragement à l’Art et à l’Industrie, recognizing its excellence in industrial design.

While this second-generation version is generally no longer officially attributed to Charbonneaux in contemporary catalogues, it clearly carries forward the visual language, ergonomic thinking, and modernist spirit that made the original TEMPIC a design icon.

The timer perfectly embodies the optimism and functional elegance of early 1970s French design. Its compact cylindrical shape, translucent cover, contrasting grey graphics, and striking gold-toned central control create a timeless Space Age aesthetic that remains highly decorative today.
Mechanical countdown timer with a maximum timing duration of approximately 60 minutes. The "power reserve" field has been selected only to comply with the auction platform requirements.
Features
Manufacturer: JAZ, France
Model: TEMPIC
Second-generation version (1970/71 catalogue)
Mechanical countdown timer
JAZ CZ movement
White polystyrene body (Ref. 84-10)
Made in France
Dimensions
Width: approximately 7 cm
Height: approximately 5.5 cm
Depth: approximately 7.5 cm
Condition
Presented in very good vintage condition, . The timer retains its attractive original appearance with only light signs of age and use consistent with careful preservation over more than fifty years.
The final images showing catalogue and movement details are included for reference and historical documentation purposes only and are not part of the lot.
A charming and increasingly difficult-to-find example of French Space Age design, combining functionality, graphic elegance and the heritage of one of France's most influential industrial design traditions.he 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.
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.In the unfortunate case of damage during transport the buyer is invited to follow Catawiki’s guidelines in a timely manner.
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 This is a vintage mechani 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.