steampunk

Steampunk is a futuristic perspective on fashion, culture, architecture and art of the Victorian era. The style focuses on modifying existing technology into fictional machines using materials such as polished brass, iron, wood and leather. Designs are often one off pieces created by artists from scrap parts.

This intriguing clock radio built at home by an unknown enthusiast captures my imagination and reminds me of a machine out of War of the Worlds. The over engineered mechanics of this elaborate beast makes it seem like one must chuck on a pair of overalls to listen to it safely!

The decorative mechanics of this machine seem to suggest it does more than just play music. In contrast a lot of digital radios of this time are aesthetically simple and refined but arguably go overboard on their features (The Pure design Alex posted!).

Here are some other Steampunk style designs - http://www.toxel.com/tech/2009/07/12/12-steampunk-gadgets-and-designs/

Ben Paul