Flip clock - Sony Digimatic "Ghostbuster" Space Age Plastic - 1970-1980

SONY DIGIMATIC TFM-C480L – Rare European Long Wave Version – Ghostbuster Series – 1975/1976
An outstanding example of 1970s Japanese industrial design, the Sony Digimatic TFM-C480L represents one of the final generations of Sony's iconic mechanical flip clock radios before the company's transition to fully electronic LED displays.
Introduced around 1975–1976, the C480 series occupies a unique place in Sony history as a transitional model between traditional electromechanical clock technology and the emerging digital era. Its clean geometric lines, smoked acrylic front panel, oversized side controls and minimalist ivory finish perfectly embody the Space Age aesthetic that defined mid-1970s consumer electronics.
Among collectors, the C480 family has earned the nickname "Ghostbuster Clock" because the American version, the TFM-C480W, appeared in Dana Barrett's apartment in the 1984 cult movie Ghostbusters. This association has made the entire C480 family highly sought after by collectors worldwide.
Sony produced three main versions of the C480 series:
• TFM-C480W – USA market (FM/AM)
• TFM-C480E – European market (FM/AM)
• TFM-C480L – European market with Long Wave reception (FM/MW/LW)
The present example is the desirable TFM-C480L, the rare European version equipped with Long Wave reception, intended for markets where LW broadcasting remained important.
This unit has been tested and is fully functional.
Functions tested:
• Clock working correctly
• Flip mechanism operating smoothly
• Radio working correctly
• Alarm buzzer working
• Radio alarm working
• Sleep function working
• Good audio output and volume
• Good FM reception
• Original dual illumination system working (separate illumination for clock display and radio dial)
Internally, the TFM-C480L showcases the high-quality engineering typical of Sony products from this period. The clock is driven by a reliable Copal synchronous motor, while the sleep and alarm systems utilize quality Omron microswitches, both manufactured in Japan. The radio retains its original Hirakawa Japan power cord and plug.
Technical specifications:
Model: Sony TFM-C480L
Production period: circa 1975–1976
Power supply: 220V / 50Hz
Power consumption: 5W
Bands:
FM 87.5 – 108 MHz
MW 530 – 1605 kHz
LW 150 – 255 kHz
Electronics:
1 Integrated Circuit
7 Transistors
Speaker diameter:
77 mm
Country of manufacture:
Taiwan (Republic of China)
Dimensions:
Width: 26.5 cm
Height: 10 cm
Depth: 14.5 cm
Weight:
Approx. 1.2 kg
Condition:
In beautiful vintage condition with minor signs of age and use consistent with its history.A video showing the actual operation of the clock and radio is available at:
https://youtu.be/Nr7gk968F0g
An increasingly collectible Sony Digimatic from the golden age of Japanese design, combining historical significance, excellent functionality and iconic Space Age styling.
The item offered is original, vintage, and pre-owned, and is described accurately and in good faith.
Before listing, the clock and radio have been carefully cleaned, tested, and documented with detailed photographs. All functions mentioned in the description have been tested and verified. A final functionality check is performed again before shipment.
Photographs 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 electro-mechanical item, signs of age and normal wear are to be expected and are consistent with its age.
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 double-box method. Particular attention is given to protecting unit.
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 the platform’s claim procedure 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.
By placing a bid/purchase, the buyer acknowledges having read and accepted the description and seller terms.