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Object Timeline

1965

  • Work on this object began.

2017

2018

2024

2025

  • You found it!

Cifra 3 Synchron Flip Clock

This is a Synchron Flip Clock. It was designed by Gino Valle and Massimo Vignelli and manufactured by Solari di Udine. It is dated 1965 and we acquired it in 2017. Its medium is molded transparent polymethacrylate and thermoplastic, electronic components. It is a part of the Product Design and Decorative Arts department.

The Cifra 3 clock shows numbers on a rotating split-flap system that was developed a decade earlier for the Solari Board, invented by Remigio Solari, as the major display method for arrival and departure times at train stations and airports worldwide. The numbering, in two different fonts for hours and minutes, designed by Massimo Vignelli, appears in stark white-on-black contrast for pure readability.

This object was donated by Robert Greenberg. It is credited Gift of Robert M. Greenberg.

Our curators have highlighted 3 objects that are related to this one.

  • Numechron Clock
  • 9.5 x 13.7 x 10.5 cm (3 3/4 x 5 3/8 x 4 1/8 in.).
  • Museum purchase from the Decorative Arts Association Acquisition Fund.
  • 1994-73-6
  •
  • Handkerchief Side Chair
  • compression-molded, fiberglass-reinforced polyester, tubular metal.
  • Gift of The Knoll Group.
  • 1991-118-2

Its dimensions are

H x W x D: 9.5 × 18 × 9.5 cm (3 3/4 × 7 1/16 × 3 3/4 in.)

Cite this object as

Cifra 3 Synchron Flip Clock; Designed by Gino Valle (Italian, 1923 - 2003), Massimo Vignelli (Italian, active USA, 1931–2014); Manufactured by Solari di Udine; molded transparent polymethacrylate and thermoplastic, electronic components; H x W x D: 9.5 × 18 × 9.5 cm (3 3/4 × 7 1/16 × 3 3/4 in.); Gift of Robert M. Greenberg; 2017-51-1

This object was previously on display as a part of the exhibitions Acquired! Shaping the National Design Collection and Bob Greenberg Selects.

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If you would like to cite this object in a Wikipedia article please use the following template:

<ref name=CH>{{cite web |url=https://www-4.collection.cooperhewitt.org/objects/1108968909/ |title=Cifra 3 Synchron Flip Clock |author=Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum |accessdate=6 February 2025 |publisher=Smithsonian Institution}}</ref>