I first saw the original version of this trick back in the 1970's when it was being imported from Germany. It was beautifully crafted from metal, and an incredibly deceptive piece of pocket mental magic. (The original German version was very small -- too small I think, as it was a bit hard for the audience to see -- but it was still a great little trick!) The original German "Wonder Clocks" have long been unavailable, and have become coveted collector's items, and sell for $60-$75 when they come up for sale (which is hardly ever!)
In the early 2000's, Magic Makers reproduced a nice version of the German original -- it was also made of metal, and also quite well made. But it was also the same size as the original, and so not so practical for many modern performing conditions where visibility of the prop is important. (The Magic Maker reproductions are also now very hard to find, and have become collector's items as well!)
Since then, there have been a few very cheaply (and poorly) made plastic versions of the prop. But I just came across this new version which (although made in plastic) works well, and has the added benefit of being much larger than any other version. It is about the size of a deck of cards, slightly larger. (see photo, with card box for scale).
The effect is still as puzzling as ever. A plastic box with a sliding cover is shown. The cover is slid back, revealing a clock face with a single hour hand, which can be set to any number. The spectator sets the hour, completely out of view from the performer, and then slides the cover over, completely hiding the clock face and chosen hour. The closed box is set on the table, or on the performer's outstretched hand, and he instantly knows what time is set -- an impressive display of clairvoyance or mindreading (depending what presentational context you give it).
The box is completely examinable...they will never find the gimmick! And the effect can be immediately repeated, which is usually requested by the audience.
The "tell" is visual, and so performer should have average or better eyesight. And so not recommended for low-lighting performance venues. But for most venues, this one is easy to do and easy to carry, always ready, no re-set, self-contained... You get the idea. It's a practical fooler!
Brand New with instructions.
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