Hubble Traveller Smart Dot Clock

Most clocks are defined by their faces. The Hubble Traveller Smart Dot Clock is defined by what it leaves out. The maker describes it as a timepiece that eliminates hands, dial and screen entirely, relying instead on proprietary "smart optical chronometer" technology. Both its design and its technology are said to take inspiration from the Hubble telescope.

Light instead of a face

Central to the concept is what the maker calls always-on "smart glow" technology, intended to keep the time readable in dark rooms and low light. The company also says the built-in optics keep the display legible from any angle. The body is described as seamless, with no visible borders or frame, in keeping with a minimalist idea of showing as little information as necessary.

What the maker claims

• Smart optical chronometer technology with no hands, dial or screen
• Always-on smart glow for visibility in low light
• Viewable from any angle, according to the maker
• Fully modular construction for easier part replacement and maintenance
• Water resistance and durability described as suitable for everyday, outdoor and travel use
• High energy efficiency and long battery life, reducing charging or battery swaps

The modular construction and long-life design are positioned as sustainability features, and the maker pitches the clock as an object meant to suit a range of interiors and lifestyles as much as a way to check the time.

The source material does not give concrete figures for water resistance, battery life, dimensions or the specifics of how the dot-based display represents time, so those claims remain general descriptions from the maker for now.