To commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Declaration of Independence, Tiffany & Co. is specially presenting a heritage astronomical clock that the brand created for the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago.
This historically significant astronomical clock features 21 complications, most of them astronomy-related; some of these complications are extremely rare in modern watchmaking, and one is a unique function—it can display the number of years since American independence. In 2026, the clock will show "250th" to mark this historic moment.
The astronomical clock was acquired by Tiffany in 2025 and subsequently underwent seven months of meticulous restoration at the brand's watchmaking workshop in Geneva. The restoration balanced mechanical performance and aesthetic presentation, striving to restore its original appearance. The astronomical clock was officially unveiled on July 3, 2026, and will be on public display at Tiffany's landmark flagship store on Fifth Avenue in New York.
Above: details of the restored dials
The astronomical clock is crafted in the Louis XV style, standing 8 feet (about 2.5 meters) tall, adorned with elegant floral reliefs and fine inlay work. The front of the clock is set with 13 gilt-framed, hand-painted silver dials, framed by California mother-of-pearl decoration. Led by Tiffany clockmaster Joseph Lindauer, Tiffany artisans spent more than two years completing this horological masterpiece on the fourth floor of the brand's Union Square store.
Tiffany's deep watchmaking heritage dates back to 1847, when the brand began selling watches and clocks. In 1868, Tiffany established an office and watch assembly workshop in Geneva, and later, in 1874, built a watchmaking factory in the heart of the city. On both sides of the Atlantic, Tiffany's master watchmakers developed and obtained patents for numerous mechanical innovations through their deep technical and horological expertise, demonstrating Tiffany's relentless pursuit of design, craftsmanship and technological advancement.
The restoration of this astronomical clock and its exhibition coinciding with the 250th anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Declaration of Independence fully demonstrate Tiffany's important position and achievements in the field of fine watchmaking and its generations-spanning exquisite craftsmanship. As the guardian of this unique historical heritage, Tiffany remains committed to preserving and passing on history and culture through precious works that carry the memories of their eras, resonating deeply with collectors and historical researchers around the world.
What makes this astronomical clock extraordinary is its integration of 21 complications, capable of tracking the complex relationships among celestial bodies within a single timepiece. These functions measure and display time in multiple ways—from the 365-day calendar and 24-hour timekeeping that people follow in daily life to the direct tracking of various astronomical phenomena.
Above: details of the restored dials
| Source: Official press release
| Image credit: Provided by the brand
