The Chronophage

Often dubbed one of the strangest public clocks in the world, the Corpus Clock (a.k.a. the “Chronophage” or “time-eater”) uses a giant grasshopper-like creature as part of its escapement. Instead of hands, the rippling gold face reveals the time through illuminated slits—turning timekeeping into a piece of living, kinetic sculpture. Its creator, Dr. John C. Taylor, said he wanted to make timekeeping interesting.

Further reading: Corpus Clock overview  |  Wired: “World's Oddest, Scariest, Grasshopperiest Clock”

That’s pretty much North Coast Imports’ mantra too: making timekeeping interesting. Alongside the traditional mechanical clocks we love, it’s always a treat to see bold, extravagant horological art being created in the modern world.

What’s especially fascinating here is the blend of old and new: LEDs and an electric winding system paired with a fundamentally mechanical heart—centered around a grasshopper-style escapement that makes the whole display feel alive.

And if you enjoy inventive escapements and “motion as sculpture,” you’ll love our Navigator clock—a tribute to John Harrison’s marine chronometer breakthroughs, with a mesmerizing, visible mechanism.