Grand Central's Secrets: Unveiling The Iconic Clock & More!
Ever stopped to consider what truly defines Grand Central Terminal? It's undoubtedly the majestic clock, a symbol of timelessness and a silent witness to the ebb and flow of New York City life, that captures the very essence of this iconic landmark.
Beyond its practical function of telling time, the Grand Central Station clock stands as a beacon of history, art, and cinematic allure. From the "Glory of Commerce" sculpture presiding over the entrance to the very heart of the main concourse, the station exudes an ambiance enhanced by this horological masterpiece. Commonly referred to as Grand Central Station, the official designation is Grand Central Terminal, a name that resonates with the buildings architectural significance at 42nd Street and Park Avenue in Midtown Manhattan. Its more than just a transit hub; it's a living, breathing testament to the grandeur of a bygone era, seamlessly woven into the fabric of modern life.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Grand Central Terminal Clock |
| Location | Main Concourse, Grand Central Terminal, New York City |
| Year of Completion | 1913 |
| Designer/Manufacturer | Seth Thomas Clock Company |
| Material | Opaline Glass, Metal Frame |
| Estimated Value | $20 million+ |
| Accuracy | Within 1 second every 20 billion years (calibrated to the U.S. Naval Observatory atomic clock) |
| Notable Features | Four opaline glass faces, Beaux-Arts design |
| Historical Significance | Symbol of Grand Central Terminal, representation of timelessness and precision |
| Movie Appearances | Featured in numerous films including "Grand Central Murder," "The Fisher King," "The Avengers," and "The Godfather" |
| Architectural Style | Beaux-Arts |
| Dimensions (Approximate) | Varies depending on the specific clock; the information booth clock is a significant size. |
| Reference | Grand Central Terminal Official Website |
The allure of the Grand Central Station clock extends beyond its intrinsic value. Its design, faithfully respecting the architectural nuances of the station, adds a touch of vintage charm to any interior, making it a sought-after aesthetic element. Imagine a home graced with a station clock, its face inspired by the iconic timepiece, adding a layer of sophistication and historical depth. More than just a decorative piece, it becomes a conversation starter, a tangible link to the romance of train travel and the golden age of New York City.
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The clock's historical significance is intertwined with the very origins of Grand Central Terminal. Completed in 1913, the same year as the 100th birthday of the Seth Thomas Clock Company, it was more than just a functional object; it was a symbol of progress and innovation. The Beaux-Arts terminal, as it was known, represented a new era in transportation, and the clock stood as a proud testament to this achievement. The "Glory of Commerce" sculpture, watching over the entrance, further emphasizes the terminal's role as a gateway to opportunity and advancement.
Adding to the station's atmosphere, the Grand Central Station clock is not only an aesthetic piece but also a timeless element that contributes elegance and sophistication. The clock is a focal point, enhancing the overall ambiance of this historic transportation hub. The station clock contributes to the station's atmosphere by adding an element of timeless elegance and sophistication. Its presence in the main concourse serves as a focal point for the terminal and enhances the overall ambiance of this historic transportation hub.
The Grand Central Terminal Wall Clock, available (though sometimes out of stock until late January), brings this iconic design into homes around the world. The clock features a white dial with large Roman numerals, an internal pendulum, and decorative hands. It is encased in a metal outer frame with a protective glass lens, faithfully capturing the essence of the original. These replicas serve as reminders of the grandeur and history associated with Grand Central Terminal.
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Grand Central Terminal itself is a remarkable architectural wonder, paying homage to the artistry of architecture and the enduring essence of American train travel. The official book about Grand Centrals centennial, "Grand Central Terminal: 100 Years of a New York Landmark" by historian Anthony Robins and the New York Transit Museum, describes the clock in vivid detail, capturing its importance within the station's history. The clock's movie appearances and growing influence have solidified its place in popular culture. Grand central station or grand central terminal, no matter what you call her, is a glorious building of grand stature that presides over central new york city.
The allure of the Grand Central Station clock extends beyond its role as a time-telling device. The famed opal glass clock perched atop the info booth is valued at $20 million or more. This is due to the unique opaline glass, the craftsmanship involved, and its irreplaceable status within the terminal. The clock in question sits encased by the statue "Transportation" on the facade of Grand Central Terminal facing 42nd Street and Park Avenue, a location that further enhances its prominence.
Moreover, the Grand Central Station clock has been featured in several famous movie scenes, including "The Fisher King," "The Avengers," and "The Godfather." Its iconic status and central location within the terminal have made it a popular backdrop for filmmakers looking to capture the essence of New York City. The first time the Grand Central Terminal clock appeared in a film was in 1942 in a film called Grand Central Murder, and it was featured in several scenes throughout the film. This first appearance sparked other filmmakers to include it in some of their own works.
The concourse itself, with its ceiling vault painted with constellations, was one of the largest enclosed spaces of its time. The clock serves as a natural focal point, drawing the eye upward and encouraging visitors to marvel at the architectural splendor that surrounds them. Plan to spend a few hours exploring this classic landmark uncovering a wealth of history and grandeur and making wonderful New York City memories.
The stations commitment to accuracy is another fascinating aspect. Every clock in the terminal, including the famed opal glass clock, is accurate to within 1 second every 20 billion years, calibrated to the atomic clock in the U.S. Naval Observatory in Washington, DC. This level of precision reflects the terminal's dedication to serving its commuters and visitors with the utmost reliability.
To celebrate Grand Central Terminal's 112th birthday on February 2, 1912, the terminal has promotions like giving away 112 tickets to Summit One Vanderbilt. The terminal gives away these tickets for people who dine at GCT from January 24 to February 2.
The clock's design is a nod to the Beaux-Arts style of architecture, prevalent during the early 20th century. The clean lines, the bold Roman numerals, and the use of high-quality materials all contribute to its timeless appeal. The opal glass faces, in particular, lend a soft, diffused light to the clock, making it easily readable from any angle.
Whether you refer to it as Grand Central Station or Grand Central Terminal, theres no denying that this landmark is a cornerstone of New York City's identity. From the "Glory of Commerce" sculpture to the intricate details of the clock, every element of the terminal speaks to a rich history and an unwavering commitment to excellence. A visit to Grand Central is a journey through time, a chance to experience the grandeur of a bygone era, and an opportunity to connect with the spirit of a city that never sleeps.
In conclusion, the Grand Central Station clock is far more than just a way to tell time. It's a symbol of the city, a piece of art, and a reminder of the enduring power of human ingenuity. So the next time you find yourself in Grand Central Terminal, take a moment to appreciate the clock, and let its timeless beauty transport you to another era.
The entry about Grand Central Clock was posted on february 6, 2017 at 5:44 am and is filed under midtown, music, art, theater, transit.
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Clock grand central new york hi res stock photography and images Alamy
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Grand Central Terminal Clock, New York, USA. Grand Central… Flickr
