DESIGN NOTES

Islamic Timepieces
For years Muslims have relied on many ways to tell them the time for prayers and for
breaking the fast during the holy month of Ramadan. Checking the timings on the daily
newspaper, turning on the radio or television, installing an Islamic timings application and
even observing the sun! But the latest and coolest way to know your timings is with special-
ized luxury timepieces made for Muslims. Created by Archides Uhren GmbH in Salzburg,
the Austrian company has created timepieces specially made for Muslims. The collection
features three amazing unique pieces.

By Nour Ibrahim

Their first timepiece is the Mekka Tower Clock, which is a replica

of the very clock that stands in Mecca today. The mini version
is made out of 2kg of sterling silver and has a quartz movement
powered by solar technology- something that is abundant in all
Arab nations. The gearbox is also handmade to operate 4 dials.
A truly marvelous tradition to any home, and to any person who
wants something interesting to look at as they count down to Iftar
in Ramadan!

The next piece, the Hijra Watch is a more portable option for those
that rush home after work to feed both the family and themselves
when Maghrib hits. When stuck in Egyptian traffic, this watch is sure
to calm them with its calming aesthetic and attention to detail.
Not only are the numbers in Arabic, but the watch also maintains
a moon-phase calendar, counting down the days of the month of
Ramadan as well. Keeping track of time and how many Iftar you
have to get to this month has never been made simpler.

The final piece by the Austrian company is definitely the most

unique. While maintaining the same features provided in the
previous piece, this one is a desk clock that has a wide variety
of cases, each meant to satisfy every customer’s need. Any tra-
ditional Arab salon seems to be missing this Hijra Mantle Clock
with its beautiful design and traditional appeal,

www.archides.at