Matteo Sandrin

about work objects photo

METRO CLOCK

A replica of the clock from Milan's Metro

Growing up in Milan, the Metro played an integral role in my daily life, shuttling me between home, school, and many nights out. I was fascinated by the distinctive signage that Bob Noorda had designed in the 1960s for the Milan Metro. A bespoke clock designed by Noorda himself could be found in every station, with its railway-style dial, bold sans-serif numerals, and chunky red hands.

I found this clock delightful and nostalgic. Unable to find one for sale, I decided to create a replica of my own. Using an existing 30in clock as a base, the dial is painstakingly recreated with spray acrylic paint. The red hands are 3D printed, thoroughly sanded and coated with layers of durable enamel paint. The shorter end of the minute hand is filled with steel bearings, counteracting the weight of its 15in wingspan.

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METROCARD XXL

Large replica of the iconic NYC subway card

In November 2022, the MTA announced the discontinuation of the MetroCard from NYC subways. As a frequent subway rider, I had grown fond of its iconic design and felt a pang of sadness thinking it would be gone forever. I decided to manufacture a wall-sized replica of the MetroCard, in an effort to pay tribute to and preserve its timeless design.

The “METROCARD XXL” measures a staggering 48in by 32in, fourteen times its original. The sturdy plywood base is finished with rounded corners and the iconic lanyard hole. Every detail is faithfully reproduced with multiple layers of spray acrylic paint, creating a flawlessly flat and industrial aesthetic.

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SPACE CLOCK

A trusted timekeeper for outer space

This object began its life as a General Electric model F1-8147 bedside alarm clock. When I found it on the shelves of a thrift store, I was struck by the space age look of its vacuum-fluorescent display and by the boxy 80s silhouette of it shell. Inspiration struck: this clock was destined for space. I pictured it at ease on the dashboard of the Pan-American Lunar Shuttle, from the film "2001: A Space Odyssey".

To bring this vision to life, the clock is stripped down to its bare components. Every button is cleaned and resoldered. The shell is sanded, primed and painted a lunar shade of white. The iconic NASA logo is carefully applied to both sides, while the alarm control switch is painted a vibrant red to match. Finally, the display rim and raised labeling are touched up for contrast.

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