For those who have everything: Qlocktwo

last updated 10 January 2015

The basic function of a clock—to clearly indicate the time—inhibits design innovation: We need to be able to read all clocks at a glance. But that’s what makes Biegert & Funk’s Qlocktwo “a unique addition” to the world of timepieces. Rather than displaying numbers, this clever device displays common phrases, such as “It is a quarter past 12.” The brightness of the LED readout adjusts automatically so that it’s visible in daylight but not overwhelming when the room darkens. The clock is already available in 12 languages; come fall, there’ll also be a wristwatch version.

$1,100, biegertfunk.com