Our history

Let every moment become art

SIMAGIN is a brand that creates exclusive interior clocks with premium-quality multi-dial designs. Each piece is handcrafted by the company's artisans, harmoniously combining engineering expertise and artistic craftsmanship.

Clocks are an essential part of every interior. Choosing the right accessory plays a significant role, as clocks have the ability to bring life and harmony to a space.

The history of modern clocks with multi-dial octagonal designs began with the idea of merging mechanical precision and the expressive nature of geometric design. These clocks are the result of a bold experiment by SIMAGIN Art Clocks founder Alexey Russkin and a team of engineers, who sought to create something more than just a timekeeping device.

From centuries-old traditions to design artistry

The concept of SIMAGIN Art Clocks is closely linked to the evolution of horological art, combining centuries-old traditions with modern design. The first multi-dial clocks appeared as early as the 16th century when watchmakers began to perceive clocks as works of art.

One of the contemporary examples exploring the relationship between time and design is Christian Postma’s piece "ClockONE," a canvas of 150 clock mechanisms that visualizes the passage of time in a unique graphical format.

Christiaan Postma's clocks
https://www.dezeen.com/2008/04/28/clock-by-christiaan-postma/

Inspired by the ideas of European artisans and after studying various styles and modern global trends, Alexey Russkin brought his vision of creating a unique product to life over the course of three years.

The journey from the first prototype to the finished product.

Thanks to his extensive experience and deep knowledge in electronics, Alexey was able to create unique interior clocks in Russia.

The founder of the SIMAGIN brand, Alexey Russkin

The journey from the first prototype to the release of the finished product was long and labor-intensive. We had to build all the processes from scratch. At that time, the SIMAGIN brand did not yet exist—we were a team of like-minded individuals, made up of programmers and electronics specialists united by a common dream. We studied relevant literature, quality standards, and various articles, and involved experts from other fields.

The first prototype was created in 2020. The team conducted tests and numerous trials, refining every detail to perfection. Our persistence and desire to realize our dream led to impressive results, ensuring high quality and functionality of the final product. In 2023, we had a product ready for market launch. Our SIMAGIN Art Clocks successfully passed the examination and received a certificate of conformity with state quality standards (EAEU). We also obtained a patent for the industrial design and software code.

Creating a unique design inspired by octagonal shapes

Inspiration for creating the unusual product design came from observations of modern architecture, where the octagonal shape has become a symbol of sustainability, minimalism, and functionality. The octagon, with its eight sides, perfectly combines strict symmetry with visual dynamism. Inspired by these principles, Alexey Russkin decided to create the concept of a multi-segment dial.

The process of creating octagonal clocks turned out to be technically challenging. To maintain perfect symmetry and accuracy, engineers had to develop a technology that allowed for synchronous control of all segments. The result exceeded all expectations—thanks to our innovative approach, we were able to create a clock where the strict geometric forms of octagons harmoniously blend with high-class Swiss mechanics.

Octagonal dials symbolize not only precision and order but also the pursuit of harmony amidst the chaos of time

The first challenges and the first achievements

Even at the first stage of our project, we faced several challenges, particularly in selecting electronic components. They needed to meet high standards of quality and reliability.

The importance of a quality stepper motor for timepieces cannot be overstated: it determines the impeccable accuracy and smoothness of the hands' movement. For our initial tests, we used a motor from a camera diaphragm; however, it had significant play in the mechanisms, causing the hands' positions to deviate considerably from the values set in the program code. After trying various options, we found the perfect solution—high-precision Swiss movements from Juken Swiss Technology, which are used in the chronographs of elite automotive brands like Bentley and Maserati. This became the foundation for the flawless choreography of our clock hands.

Stepper motor from Juken Swiss Technology. Source of information:
https://jukenswisstech.com/project/stepper-motors/

At the initial stages of our project, we abandoned the use of a power cable through a Type-C connector, as it caused difficulties during the installation and connection of the product. Instead, a more convenient solution was developed using a power supply built into the wall outlet. This solution simplified the installation process of the product and made it more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing, avoiding dangling power cords.

With this connection option to the network, the designer only needs to plan the location for the wall outlet.

During the development of the central control unit, we achieved high results in interacting with mobile devices via the Bluetooth module. Thanks to the built-in real-time clock module, the clock automatically synchronizes with the exact time anywhere in the world upon the first connection.

Abandoning Buttons and Developing a Mobile Application

Initially, the control of the clock was done using buttons located on the back panel of the case. However, we decided to abandon this solution in favor of a mobile application, which significantly enhances the convenience of management and settings.

The SIMAGIN application features an intuitive interface that allows the clock owner to easily set the operating schedule, create a personal password, and choose their favorite animation.

One of the key improvements is the automatic software update feature through the official website and app. Updating the system can be done with just a few taps, which greatly simplifies the operation of the device.

Aiming to Achieve Maximum Accuracy and Perfect Geometric Shapes

Striving for perfection and an aesthetic design of the products, we explored various methods of manufacturing hands. In the end, we chose a technology that combines strength and elegance, utilizing modern materials and advanced techniques.

The foundation of the new method is the use of a shock-resistant polymer, which, thanks to its unique properties, ensures high durability and wear resistance of the hands. This material is not only lightweight and strong but also well-suited for processing, allowing for the achievement of the finest lines and geometric shapes. Additionally, each hand undergoes a manual finishing process, perfected by our craftsmen.

Eco-Friendly and Lightweight Case

The case of the Art Clocks product is made using composite technology with wood fiber, making it eco-friendly and lightweight. The finished product weighs no more than 10 kg, and the convenient mounting system allows the installation to be placed on any wall surface.

Awards and Recognition

SIMAGIN Art Clocks were first presented in February 2024 at the International Furniture, Interior Solutions, and Art Exhibition ARTDOM, held in Moscow at the Gostiny Dvor. The admiring looks and evaluations from the professional community confirmed that we are on the right track, providing us with strength and inspiration.

In September 2024, Art Clocks became awardees at the national competition "Best Industrial Design of Russia" in the category "Design Product," within the "Household Items" section. This recognition from the expert community highlights the high level of professionalism and creative potential of our team.

Our products entered the top 5 best interior items and were showcased in an exhibition at the All-Russian Museum of Decorative Art, following the assessment of an international jury within the "Conceived and Made in Russia" competition.

Upcoming Plans

We continue to move forward and develop our ideas. Our upcoming plans include scaling production in Russia and expanding our collaboration to cover both Russia and the Gulf countries to promote and sell our products.