How To Choose A Wall Clock

First things first! You should decide between the two main types of wall clocks:

• Analog: these are the most traditional, decorative and aesthetically-pleasing wall clocks! They can become a bold statement, and some of them can be very big. However, while some are quieter than others, any analog clock will make some kind of noise, so it could be distracting if you're planning on having it right above your working desk or in the bedroom;

• Digital: these clocks value functionality over charm, but they can still be a conscious décor choice depending on the style of your room; they're as quiet as a mouse, immediate to read when they're fairly close to you, and can even give you additional information such as date and temperature; backlit options will make it easier to tell the time when it gets dark.

Looking for something old-style and quirky? If noise is not one of your concerns, you could even consider cuckoos or pendulums!

One of the best things about clocks is that they come in all shapes and sizes, especially if they're analog. While the average wall clock is around 12 inches in diameter, you'll find all kinds of smaller and larger models.

As for the right sizefor you, it mainly depends on the rest of the wall:

• If your new clock is going to be the main decorative element on a bare wall, you can easily go over 20 inches: nothing's stopping you!
• If you already have a big painting, picture or some other type of large focal element on it, think of your new clock in relation to it: it's probably best to keep it small;
• Where will you need to read it from? If the clock is right above your desk, you can easily go for smaller analog or digital clocks, but, if you'll be mainly looking at it from the couch on the other side of the room, you should go for a large analog clock (over 20 inches) that is easy to read.

Imagine ending up with a clock that has a background that almost blends in with the wall! Or a super-modern metal frame in a pastel-toned shabby chic room. Not the best idea, right?

When it comes to colors and design, take the time to identify these three things before browsing away:

• Color of the wall: to make it easier to tell the time and for your clock to stand out, try and look for one that creates a light and dark contrast against its designated wall;

• Room palette: what are the three main colors in the room? Is there a brighter accent color that you can choose, instead of adding a new shade?

• Décor: for the best result, you want a wall clock that looks cohesive with its style.

Here are our recommendations when it comes to décor:

• For a modern look, you could choose between a digital clock and a plastic or metal analog model. For the latter, choose Arabic numerals or lines… or you could even forget about the case and face altogether and have numbers and hands installed on the wall!

• What's more minimalist than a clock with lines instead of numbers or, even better, just the hands? As for the clock's face, go monochrome or choose a two-color design;

• For a Scandinavian feel, add wood and natural colors (such as white, cream, grey, dark blue and forest green) to minimalist elements;

• If you want a clock that screams 'industrial décor', look for black iron, roman numerals… and no face! Also, don't be afraid to go as big as you can;

• Combining vintage and more contemporary elements can help you achieve a mid-Century modern look: if you already have lots of modern elements, your clock could be more traditional, or vice versa. Alternatively, you can look for a clock that combines these two styles in itself, for example by having roman numerals and a starburst shape;

• Experimenting with wood, bright colors and patterns that mimic specific textures can result in a cheerful bohemian effect;

• It's imperative to stick to roman numerals when it comes to shabby chic rooms! While white and pastel colors with a discolored effect are the most popular, flowery decorations will also fit very well with this style;

• For a vintage or rustic look, you can either go for quirky options such as cuckoos and pendulums or traditional, round analog clocks with a white or light-yellow face in a monochrome case.

• Another idea is to identify a specific decorative element that dominates the room and choose a clock in that shape. For example, if you have lots of owls among your souvenirs or cushions, why not look for an owl-shaped clock?

• If you're a frequent traveler, you could flaunt your cosmopolitan approach to life by having different clocks that show the time in different cities and countries.