What's Wrong With This Picture: Death To The Dash Clock Edition

Edward Niedermeyer
by Edward Niedermeyer

I don’t know about you, but I’m finding the “analog clock=luxury” thing a bit played out. One upon a time, the old-school interior clock was everywhere… and folks called it a modern convenience. Then it became a genteel, slightly throwback Maserati hallmark. Then it became a symbol of Infiniti’s admiration for Maseratis, and its desire to stand apart in the luxury market. Then Chryslers started adding clocks as it moved, unconvincingly, to position itself upmarket. Now? Now the interior chronograph just seem to be a symbol of trying to hard to appear luxurious without really offering anything unique, distinctive, or innovative. Which is why I’m a bit concerned that an early shot of the new Lexus GS, a car that has years of underachievement in a crucial segment to make up for, seems to show that Lexus has succumbed to the siren call of the dashboard clock.

To the best of my knowledge, Lexus has never indulged in an analog dash clock before (at least in the US market), as its interiors have always been modern and purposeful, emphasizing function over frippery. This isn’t a question of “ruining” the car itself… few customers are likely to put as much emphasis on an analog clock as I do. But in this small step I do see signs of a brand drifting away from its pioneering roots and towards the directionless malaise that inevitably leads to fad-chasing, and style over substance. Even if Lexus does need to reinvigorate its aesthetic DNA, ripping of the cheesiest “Luxury: I Has It” signifier in the interior design playbook ain’t a promising start. Don’t clock up a good thing, Lexus!


Edward Niedermeyer
Edward Niedermeyer

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  • SherbornSean SherbornSean on Jul 16, 2011

    Aren't all the people criticizing Lexus analog clocks the same ones hating on the S2000 for its digital dash? Why should a speedo be analog, but a clock must be digital? From my perspective, an interior is either done well, or it isn't, regardless of analog or digital. I think the main focus should be on legible driving instruments and electronics that mesh well with PDAs. Beyond that, it's all a matter of taste.

  • Shaker Shaker on Jul 16, 2011

    This thread brings a peeve of mine to mind - if a watch/clock comes with a "second hand", isn't it actually the third hand? My wristwatch is a an analog Timex with the big white face and the black hands, and though it has a cool green backlight, I never have to use it unless in total darkness. I've had many digital watches over the years, but as my eyesight worsened, I find the analog watch much easier to comprehend at a glance.

  • Analoggrotto Hyundai is the greatest automotive innovator of the modern era, you can take my word for it.
  • MrIcky My maintenance costs are pretty high because I enjoy doing questionable things (when it is safe to do so of course). Tires and frequent oil changes seem a small price to pay.
  • MaintenanceCosts Dammit, my Highlander's two years too old.
  • Analoggrotto so what
  • Shipwright I wonder where Speedmaster is based. Oh Looky! it's China! who would have thought.
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