The Clock Museum

By Grey Lupindo

  One of my favorite things to do in both RL and SL is to visit museums.   I recently found a unique one here in SL, The Clock Museum, located at Triglav (104, 32, 75).  There are over 100 clocks in every size, shape and type in the beautiful stone building and surrounding gardens.   The Museum is a tribute to the creativity of SL residents as well as the generosity of the site’s owners, Selador Cellardoor, elisha Zamin, and Doll Ulysses.

         The three owners are all long-time residents of SL.  Selador Cellardoor has been a resident since 2003, and Zamin and Ulysses since 2006.   Their Museum is free and non-commercial.   They even have a few freebies, including clock patterned clothing, for visitors to take as souvenirs.   

         The variety of clocks is impressive.    Some are tall and massive.   Others are small and dainty.  There are Victorian and early American reproductions that are very detailed and historic.    Many of the clocks are imaginative and fanciful.  The styles range from antique to modern to futuristic.   Lots of steampunk ones, too.    At least two clocks are powered by water wheels.  One of them was inspired by a RL French clock from the 19^th century.   Notecards are placed beside each clock so that visitors can take a landmark to the clock maker’s shop for more information or to purchase.  

       My favorite clock is one that does more than just tell time.  It is a clock house that is powered by a gerbil on a wheel.   It is located in the garden and well worth the short walk to see it.    In addition to the clocks, the garden has a picnic table, dance pavilion, a maze, and plenty of benches where friends can meet for quiet conversation.      

           I visited the Museum twice in order to see all of the clocks.  In addition to being visual treats, most of the clocks make beautiful sounds.   The sounds vary with each clock and provide a soothing background.    The Steampunk clocks hiss and vent steam, too, so be careful to not get too close.     In the entrance is a modern clock that shows that time doesn’t fly—it falls.   With each changing minute the old numerals fall to the floor and are replaced by the current ones.  

           As you stroll through the Museum, make sure you turn your sound up so you can hear the clocks.  Plan to stay long enough for the hour to change, too.    On my second visit the time changed to 3:00 p.m.    What a great surprise!    All at once the Museum filled with the sound of coo coo’s, chimes, whistles, bells, music, and more.    It was amazing.

            The Clock Museum is a hidden gem in SL.    A visit won’t take much time, but the pleasant memory will last forever

Grey Lupindo