Finding a wall clock that transcends mere timekeeping to become a piece of art can be a delightful challenge. Many seek a timepiece that complements their decor, adding both function and flair without overwhelming the space. This is where the Umbra Blink Wall Clock, with its distinctive metal design, steps in. This review will explore its design ingenuity, installation process, performance, and what real users have to say, helping you decide if this customizable timepiece is the perfect addition to your home.
The Umbra Blink Design: A Fusion of Art and Time
The Umbra Blink Wall Clock is a testament to minimalist design, transforming the traditional wall clock into an interactive decor element. Instead of a solid clock face, it features a central mechanism and individual metal time indicators, including the number “12,” which are mounted directly onto your wall. This deconstructed approach allows your wall to become the clock’s canvas, making it a unique statement piece that integrates seamlessly with contemporary and modern interiors.
Crafted from painted black aluminum, the indicators and hands offer a sleek, refined aesthetic. One of its most compelling features is the customizable size. The clock comes with a fold-out paper template, providing options for both a smaller, more intimate display or a larger, more dramatic presentation, allowing you to tailor its scale to perfectly suit your space and vision. This thoughtful design ensures the Blink isn’t just a clock, but a piece of DIY wall art designed to create visual impact.
Umbra Blink wall clock showing its customizable, deconstructed black metal design on a modern wall
Seamless Installation: Your DIY Wall Art Project
Setting up the Umbra Blink Wall Clock is designed to be a straightforward DIY project, empowering you to create a personalized timepiece. The package includes a detailed template that guides you through the precise placement of each metal indicator. The indicators themselves feature strong 3M adhesive backing for easy mounting, while the central clock mechanism is secured to the wall with a screw or nail. This dual-mounting system ensures both the decorative elements and the functional core are held firmly in place.
However, a key piece of advice from experienced users is to temporarily tape the pieces to the wall first. This allows you to visualize the chosen size and arrangement before committing to the permanent adhesive, ensuring satisfaction with the final look. Additionally, for optimal adhesion, always ensure your wall surface is clean, dry, and free of dust before application. It’s also worth noting that while the 3M adhesive is strong, care should be taken if future removal is anticipated, as surface damage may occur. Some users have opted for additional, stronger adhesive for long-term security of the indicators.
Person installing Umbra Blink wall clock using a paper template and adhesive indicators
Performance and Precision: Silent Timekeeping
Beyond its striking design, the Umbra Blink Wall Clock is engineered for reliable performance. It operates on a high-quality quartz clock movement, renowned for its accuracy and minimal maintenance requirements. This precise mechanism ensures you can depend on the Blink to keep perfect time, day in and day out.
Perhaps one of its most appreciated features is its silent sweeping movement. Unlike many clocks that produce an audible ticking sound, the Blink operates quietly, making it an ideal choice for bedrooms, offices, or any space where tranquility is valued. It requires just one AA battery, which is not included, making it simple to power and keep running.
Pros & Cons: What Users Love and What to Consider
The Umbra Blink Wall Clock has garnered appreciation for several key attributes, but like any product, it comes with a few considerations.
Pros:
- Striking Aesthetic: Its minimalist and modern design instantly elevates any room, making it a captivating focal point.
- Customizable Scale: The included template allows you to adjust the clock’s size, making it suitable for various wall dimensions and personal preferences.
- Easy DIY Installation: With a clear template and adhesive backing, setting up the clock is an engaging and manageable project for most users.
- Silent Operation: The quartz movement ensures accurate timekeeping without any disruptive ticking noises.
- Eco-Friendlier Production: Umbra states the clock is made with an eco-friendlier finish, using significantly less water and solid waste in its production process.
- Unique Wall Art: It functions as both a clock and a decorative art installation, adding a contemporary touch to your home.
Cons:
- Adhesive Longevity: Some users have reported issues with the 3M adhesive losing its grip over time, occasionally requiring a stronger, more permanent glue for the indicators.
- Hand Length Discrepancy: When utilizing the larger template size, the clock hands can sometimes appear disproportionately short relative to the expanded indicator layout, which can slightly impact readability.
- Hand Durability: A few reviews mention the hands being somewhat flimsy or having sharp edges, with one user needing to tighten a hand to prevent it from falling.
- Potential for Wall Damage: While the adhesive is designed for easy application, removal may result in surface damage, especially on delicate wall finishes.
“The Umbra Blink Wall Clock is a brilliant concept for modern spaces, offering a customizable focal point. Its minimalist design truly makes the wall a part of the art.” – Sarah L., Interior Decorator
Is the Umbra Blink Wall Clock Right for Your Space?
The Umbra Blink Wall Clock is particularly well-suited for individuals who appreciate modern, minimalist, and industrial design aesthetics. If you’re looking for a statement piece that doubles as a functional clock and allows for a degree of personalization, the Blink could be an excellent fit. Its adaptable size makes it versatile for various rooms, from a small home office to a large living area. It’s also ideal for those who enjoy a simple DIY project and want to infuse their decor with a contemporary, artistic touch. However, if absolute traditional readability and zero installation effort are your top priorities, or if your walls have very textured or uneven surfaces, these are factors to consider.
Buying Guide: What to Know Before You Buy
When considering the Umbra Blink Wall Clock, here are a few essential details:
- Price: The Umbra Blink Wall Clock typically retails around $45, though prices may vary depending on the retailer and current promotions.
- Warranty: Umbra offers a 45-day money-back guarantee and a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty, providing assurance in your purchase.
- Where to Purchase: You can find the Umbra Blink Wall Clock through Umbra’s official website, as well as various online retailers specializing in home goods and modern decor. Always check trusted retailers for authenticity and customer service.
- Specifications: The clock’s dimensions when fully installed can range significantly due to its customizable nature, but the components are designed to create a striking presence. It’s made of metal and uses a quartz movement.
The Umbra Blink Wall Clock offers a fresh take on timekeeping, blending functional design with artistic expression. Its customizable metal indicators and silent quartz movement make it a compelling choice for modern homes seeking a unique wall accent. While there are minor considerations regarding adhesive strength and hand appearance at larger scales, its overall impact and innovative design make it a standout product.
Are you ready to transform your wall into a statement piece with the Umbra Blink?
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Umbra Blink Wall Clock silent?
Yes, the Umbra Blink Wall Clock operates with a silent sweeping quartz movement, ensuring no audible ticking sounds, making it ideal for quiet environments like bedrooms and offices.
How big can the Umbra Blink Wall Clock be?
The Umbra Blink Wall Clock offers a customizable size, thanks to an included template that provides options for both smaller and larger installations, allowing it to adapt to various wall spaces. The overall dimensions can reach approximately 39.25 x 39.25 x 1.25 inches when fully extended.
What type of battery does the Umbra Blink Wall Clock use?
The Umbra Blink Wall Clock requires one AA battery to power its quartz movement. The battery is not included with the clock.
Can I easily remove the Umbra Blink Wall Clock?
The metal indicators of the Umbra Blink Wall Clock mount with 3M adhesive. While designed for installation, removal might cause surface damage, especially if not done carefully or on delicate wall finishes.