Globe

Whilst we passively observe most sundials, this 16th century design allows for closer interaction with its time-telling mechanics. Equal in accuracy to the armillary sphere, the globe dial reads the shadows of both the sun and the moon.

Variations & finishes

1. Copper

Copper verdigris patina

2. Stainless Steel

Mirror polished stainless steel

3. Bronze

Bronze verdigris patina

The globe sundial is available in two sizes, with larger sizes available on request.

Available standard size

Globe dial is available in 50cm and 70cm diameter. Larger sizes are available upon request. Atlas with globe is available in 57cm height and 70cm diameter.

Available finishes

Copper, Stainless Steel, Bronze

Example scale

50cm and 70cm
(Model scale:180cm)

Design details

Globe’s graceful crescent-shaped gnoman, with the hidden internal counterweight, is moved until the shadow is directly underneath, and the time is read against the hours engraved or etched into the surface.

The romance of telling the time in a moon-lit garden creates an atmosphere of privacy and serenity. When doubling as a moon dial, it tells the time on the night of the full moon, and on three or four nights before and after as the moon waxes and wanes.

An addition to the globe dial is to commission a cast of the Greek Titan, Atlas, supporting the dial. This striking sundial poignantly reminds the viewer of the literal mass of responsibility carried by Atlas to support and maintain the Earth.

Product information

To work as a functioning time piece, the Globe should be in a position that benefits from direct sunlight throughout as much of the day as possible. If the Globe is not being fixed to an existing plinth and David Harber are supplying one, the client must provide a level concrete pad foundation for the plinth to be fixed to. The Globe is fixed to the plinth with a resin fixed bolt and then aligned for it to read the correct time. Alignment requires sunlight, in its absence, clear instructions will be provided.

We can supply a variety of stone plinths at an additional cost, although these can also be sourced separately should a local stone, for example, be required.

Installation and delivery are included in the price for UK commissions and for overseas, shipping quotes can be obtained and charged at cost.

The finishes used on the Globe will exhibit some natural weathering with age, however, periodic cleaning will help preserve its beauty. We would recommend that it be cleaned at least once a year with only warm water and a soft cloth to remove any detritus. Use of any abrasive cleaner will damage the finish and must be avoided. Maintenance instructions will be issued on installation.