Alarm clock

A miniature space capsule for the bedside table: the Lenoir 818 “Time Machine” combines an AM/FM radio and digital alarm clock within a distinctive spherical enclosure. The design is defined by its rounded upper dome, wraparound grey ribbed grille and curved smoked front panel, reminiscent of a space helmet visor. Behind this dark panel, a luminous green digital display sits above the analogue radio tuning scale, bringing together two contrasting ways of displaying information. The slanted “TIME MACHINE” lettering, with its outlined and shadowed effect, reinforces the futuristic character. Five front buttons follow the curvature of the casing, while a large circular SNOOZE / ALARM DISPLAY control is integrated into the top. Volume, tuning and operating controls are discreetly positioned around the lower sides. The casing was originally white. Its current yellowed appearance has developed with age and is not an original yellow colour scheme. No Retrobright or chemical whitening treatment has been applied. FUNCTIONAL CONDITION AND VIDEO The unit has been tested, with the following functions checked: • Digital clock and green display operating. • Radio switching on and off. • Volume adjustment and frequency tuning working. • Alarm activating during testing. • Sleep and snooze functions working. • Time backup using a 9 V battery tested and working, retaining the time during an interruption to the mains supply. Please note that the alarm activation control can occasionally respond inconsistently and may require another operation before engaging. The alarm itself activates during testing. This occasional behaviour is disclosed to describe the unit accurately. A video demonstrating its operation and tests is available here: https://youtu.be/POioU9CFJcQ TECHNICAL DETAILS • Manufacturer’s branding: Lenoir • Model: 818 “Time Machine” • Design: spherical, Space Age-inspired • Estimated period: circa 1990, probably late 1980s–early 1990s • Country of manufacture: China, as marked on the base • Approximate dimensions: height 16 cm × diameter 16 cm • Display: green, four-digit, seven-segment display, shown in 24-hour format • FM frequency range: 88–108 MHz • AM frequency range stated on the base: 530–1605 kHz • AM graduations visible on the tuning scale: 540–1600 kHz • Mains rating: AC 220 V, 50 Hz • Time backup: 9 V battery • Radio integrated circuit: Toshiba TA7613AP • Loudspeaker: H.L.S., marked 8 Ω, 0.25 W • Transformer marked “BUILT-IN FUSE” DATING AND ORIGINAL LABELS The internal Toshiba integrated circuit carries the marking: TOSHIBA TA7613AP — 8949U — M’SIA The sequence “8949” is compatible with a year/week code corresponding to the 49th week of 1989. This interpretation is not independently confirmed. If the component is original and this coding convention applies, assembly would date from late 1989 or later. The piece is therefore offered as circa 1990, with a Space Age-inspired aesthetic. An exact manufacturing year is not established. The “M’SIA” marking relates to the Toshiba component. The complete radio is separately labelled “Made in China”. The underside retains its model and frequency label, mains-rating label and Italian Ministero P.T. label. The dates 25 June 1985 and 27 August 1987 printed on the latter refer to ministerial decrees rather than the manufacturing date. COSMETIC CONDITION Vintage condition with visible signs of age and use, including pronounced yellowing and uneven discolouration of the originally white plastic, scratches, scuffs and surface marks on the casing and smoked front panel. The plastic has not been chemically whitened. Please examine the photographs closely for the condition of the surfaces, lettering, controls and labels. Internal photographs document the construction and component markings; they do not imply a complete electronic restoration. A distinctive piece for collectors of unconventional clock radios, spherical industrial design and Space Age-inspired vintage electronics. This is a vintage electronic item. Its condition and the functions tested are described above and documented in the photographs and demonstration video. Testing records its operation at the time of inspection and does not constitute a guarantee of future service life. Unless expressly stated, a complete electronic overhaul or replacement of all ageing components has not been carried out. Vintage components may require maintenance or servicing over time. Radio reception depends on location, signal availability, interference and antenna positioning. Reception at the buyer’s location may differ from that demonstrated in the video. The unit is labelled AC 220 V, 50 Hz. The buyer is responsible for ensuring compatibility with the local electricity supply; a plug adaptor alone does not convert voltage or frequency. The 9 V battery provides time backup and should not be confused with a portable power supply for normal radio operation. Colours and the appearance of the display may vary slightly with lighting, camera settings and screen calibration. Age-related yellowing and the disclosed cosmetic wear form part of this item’s condition. The sale concerns the Lenoir 818 clock radio only. Measuring tools, photographic backgrounds and other demonstration equipment are not included. The item will be carefully protected using double-box packaging. Its condition, operation and packing process will be documented before dispatch. By placing a bid, the buyer acknowledges having reviewed all photographs, the demonstration video and the complete description, including the occasional inconsistency of the alarm activation control and the age-related yellowing of the casing.

Estimate:£108.88

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