Rhythm 51141AR Space Age Blue Clock — Japanese Design 1970 — Pre-owned

Vintage mechanical alarm clock with metallic sunburst dial and tulip base

This Rhythm 51141AR alarm clock embodies futuristic Japanese design from the 1970s with its sleek, capsule-like shape and slender base. Preserved in its original box with a working mechanism, it represents a remarkable testament to the craftsmanship of Japanese watchmakers during the Space Age. Its radially brushed dial offers a spectacular color transition from deep blue to turquoise depending on the light.

📌 Unique, pre-owned item • Open for bidding

A spectacular and highly collectible Rhythm mechanical alarm clock, model 51141AR, in the rare Blue colour version, made in Japan and kept in its original factory box.
This striking clock is an excellent example of 1970s Japanese Space Age design. Its futuristic, sculptural form consists of an oval, capsule-shaped clock case supported by a slender pedestal and a wide, circular base. The silhouette is reminiscent of iconic tulip-base furniture and television designs of the era, giving the clock the appearance of a retro-futuristic miniature screen.
The most striking feature is its extraordinary sunburst metallic dial. Its finely brushed radial finish captures and reflects light, creating a spectacular color transition from deep blue and turquoise to green, depending on the viewing angle and lighting conditions.
Chrome-plated hour markers with vibrant orange-red dots give the dial a distinctive three-dimensional appearance. The luminous hour markers and luminous sections on the hands remain clearly visible in the dark.
The dial is complemented by the elegant Rhythm signature in script, a detailed minute track, an alarm indicator, and the "Japan" branding. A highly reflective chrome bezel surrounds the crystal and extends through the sculptural pedestal and circular base, contrasting beautifully with the light-colored case.
On the back are the original controls for setting the time and alarm, as well as the inscription A-No. 51141 – Japan. Made in Japan by Rhythm Watch Co., a historic manufacturer of sample watches founded in 1950, whose initial production facilities were located in Shōwa, Saitama Prefecture, in the Kantō region. As the watch only bears the inscription "Japan," its exact manufacturing plant cannot be definitively identified.
State
The watch is presented in exceptional aesthetic condition, remarkably close to the New Old Stock appearance.
There is no yellowing, and no cracks, breaks, or missing external parts. The chrome-plated surfaces are exceptionally well-preserved and retain a brilliant mirror finish. Only very minor marks consistent with age and careful storage are visible upon close inspection.
The watch mechanism and alarm function have been thoroughly tested and are working correctly.
The original Rhythm striped box is included and retains its factory identifying label:
Model: 51141AR
Color: BLUE
Manufacturer: Rhythm
Country of manufacture: Japan
The original box shows normal storage wear and some period handwritten annotations, all clearly visible in the photos.
A rare opportunity to acquire an exceptional Japanese Space Age alarm clock in unusually complete and beautifully preserved condition. More than just a timekeeping instrument, it is a true decorative design object and an outstanding addition to any collection of vintage clocks, Japanese industrial design, or 1970s Space Age interiors.
Size
Height: about 19 cm
Maximum width: approximately 15,5 cm
Diameter of the base: approximately 10 cm
important information
The item offered is original, vintage and second-hand, and is described accurately and in good faith.
Before being offered for sale, the clock was thoroughly cleaned, tested, and documented with detailed photographs showing its actual condition and functionality. All functions mentioned in the description, including timekeeping and alarm operation, have been tested and verified. They will be retested before shipping as a final quality control check.
The 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 mechanical item, slight signs of age and normal wear are to be expected and are consistent with its age. Any structural damage, missing parts, or non-functional features are clearly disclosed in the description and/or visible in the photographs. Colors may vary slightly due to lighting conditions and screen settings.
The item will be professionally packaged using protective materials and will be double-boxed where appropriate. Shipping will be tracked and insured. The item will be handed over to the carrier in the same condition as documented prior to shipment.
The buyer is responsible for providing a correct shipping address and collecting the package within the time frame specified by the carrier. In the event of non-collection, refusal of delivery, or an incorrect address, Catawiki's applicable procedures and terms and conditions will apply.
This is a vintage mechanical part. Due to its age and original components, slight variations in performance, accuracy, or behavior may occur over time, even if it was fully functional at the time of testing. All listed functions were tested and verified at the time of listing and will be retested before shipping.
By placing a bid, the buyer confirms having carefully read the description and examined all the photographs.
The item has not been modified unless expressly stated and is intended for normal use in accordance with its age, or for collection and display.