Roman numeral clock

A traditional Roman numeral clock: large engraved-style numerals from I to XII, a fine minute track and blued spade hands. By default the numerals are set radially, with their feet towards the centre, the way they appear on church towers and fine watches.

Prefer IV to IIII? Switch it under Customise, along with the font, colours and second hand motion.

Customise the roman numeral clock

• Background
• Dial
• Rim
• Numerals
• Hands
• Second hand
• Numeral font
• Numerals
• Four
• Minute track
• Second hand motion
• Hand shadows

How to use

• Switch clocks with ← →, by clicking or tapping the sides of the screen, or by swiping. The dice button (R) jumps to a random clock.
• Go full screen with the button in the top-right corner, a double-click or F.
• Open Customise (S) to change colours, fonts, 12/24-hour time, seconds, date and time zone. Settings are saved on this device.

Questions

Why do clocks use IIII instead of IV?

Most clocks with Roman numerals show four as IIII, the “watchmaker’s four”. It balances visually with VIII on the other side of the dial and was easier to read at a glance. You can switch to IV under Customise.

How do you read Roman numerals on a clock?

I is 1, V is 5 and X is 10. A smaller numeral after a larger one adds to it (VII = 7); before it, it subtracts (IX = 9). The twelve hours run I, II, III, IIII, V, VI, VII, VIII, IX, X, XI, XII.

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