Monza Monza

Press Kit

Unique Properties

The design of Monza finds its echo in the forms, motifs from the 70s which led to the creation of a radiator-like timekeeper. The remarkable feature of this clock compared to the classical ones is that the metal plates are substituted with 2 hardened crystal glass discs with welded stainless bushes on them. This technique gives a possibility to expose the beauty of the skeleton mechanism. Mould-breaking transgressive case shape has rejected all limits that traditional manufacturing usually faces

Dimensions & Packaging

Type: Mechanical spring-driven pendulum
Movement: Planetary gearing and Graham deadbeat escapement
Power reserve: 15 days
Width 675mm x Depth 200mm x Height 420 mm

Tags

clock, skeletonclock, luxurydesign, lifestyle, clockart, madeinitaly, italiandesign, clockmaker

Production Technology

Designed, manufactured and assembled in MOM’s company workshop. The core element of Monza, the movement, sets on hardened crystal glass plates that together represent an integral union. All brass gears are hand mirror polished and afterwards Rhodium plated. It was decided to use stainless steel for the columns, arbors and pinions which later underwent hand mirror polishing. Instead of the classical rubies, Monza runs on the hermetically closed ball bearings which reduce the friction and guarantee better and smoother clockwork. By using the chromed solid wood for the case wings the timepiece significantly lost in weight. The wooden case is covered by hand-sewn red leather outside and black Alcantara inside in order to absorb the beat noise.

Design Challenge

Since its extreme curves and acute angles required new standards and techniques in order to obtain a complete, milled and finished case it turned out to be problematic to find a supplier who would not feel intimidated in front of such a task and whose services would not cost a fortune.

Research

The research target is to reinvent one of the traditional products par excellence in a modern way.
Our goal was to build a pendulum clock that integrates perfectly with the modern taste of furnishing spaces while maintaining the charm of traditional mechanical clocks.

Inspiration

The inspiration came from the 70s, which meant living in a constant state of awe and wonder: the supersonic jets flew through air and space; a new kind of Italian supercars looked as if they could break the sound barrier. A period in which the aerodynamic principles were just beginning to put down roots in the field of automotive design. The boxy, carriage-like shapes of previous decades were blending into something more streamlined.

Project Duration

The project started in January 2020 and finished in January 2021 in the hinterland of Milan.

Operation Flow

Monza is a mechanical 15-day spring-driven pendulum skeleton clock with an epicyclical train.

Image Credits

Meccaniche Orologi Milano s.r.l.