Best Sundial Clocks of 2025

Rebecca Cantu Avatar
Rebecca Cantu
Last Updated: Jan 9, 2025

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Sundial clocks are an ancient time-telling device that uses the position of the sun to indicate the time of day. These clocks come in various shapes and sizes and are typically made of materials such as stone, metal, or wood. Sundial clocks were widely used in ancient times and were an important tool for farmers, sailors, and astronomers. Today, sundial clocks are still popular among collectors and garden enthusiasts who appreciate their historical significance and unique design. These clocks are not only functional but also add a decorative touch to any outdoor space.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Stanley London Kala Pocket Sundial Cover #TOP 1
Stanley London Kala Pocket Sundial
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Whitehall Products Dragonfly Sundial Cover #TOP 2
Whitehall Products Dragonfly Sundial
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Antique Brass & Copper Sundial Compass Cover #TOP 3
Antique Brass & Copper Sundial Compass
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Sundial Clocks

#TOP 1

Stanley London Kala Pocket Sundial

AS-SC-KAL-P
Brass
Stanley London Kala Pocket Sundial Cover
Stanley London Kala Pocket Sundial | Precision Made in Austria | Brass Sun Watch Tells Solar Time Anywhere in The World | Gift for Outdoor Enthusiasts

The Stanley Sundial is a precision-made instrument by Stanley London. Crafted from solid brass and steel with a unique black ink coating, it offers a weighty feel. Measuring 60mm in diameter and weighing 40 grams, this sundial comes with a 10-language manual for easy setup. It includes an organic cork inlay and a stylish white slider case, making it portable and elegant. The ability to fold the outer and inner rings together enhances its transport convenience, ensuring you can read solar time anywhere in the world with ease.

What We Like
Precision Craftsmanship
Portable Design
Multi-language Manual
#TOP 2

Whitehall Products Dragonfly Sundial

French Bronze
12x12
Whitehall Products Dragonfly Sundial Cover
Whitehall Products 691 Dragonfly Sundial, 12x12, French Bronze

The Whitehall Products Dragonfly Sundial is a fully functional clock that reveals the time of day through the shadow it casts. Made from die cast, high-density aluminum alloy, this sundial is durable and maintains its look and function over time. With a product dimension of 12"L X 12"W X 1"H, it comes in the color of French Bronze and makes a great gift for anyone.

What We Like
Durable and maintains its look and function
Product dimensions are 12"L X 12"W X 1"H
Comes in the elegant color of French Bronze
#TOP 3

Antique Brass & Copper Sundial Compass

16059
Copper & Brass
Large
Antique Brass & Copper Sundial Compass Cover
Brass Nautical - Antique Brass & Copper Sundial Compass, Sundial Clock in Box Gift Sun Clock Ship Replica Watch

The Antique Brass & Copper Sundial Compass by Brass Nautical is a beautiful decorative object and a functional device that will guide you accurately. The compact design and the portable size make it convenient to carry on the go. Made of premium grade brass and copper, the sundial comes in a gift box made of leather. This stunning brass sundial compass is a gleaming recreation of the classic antique compass that has guided sailors since the 1100s. The dimensions of the Brass Sundial are 3.54 x 3.54 x 1.38 inches, and it weighs 0.280 kg (0.594 Pounds). Nautical collectors, enthusiasts, and seafarers alike will love this beautiful and functional device.

What We Like
Beautifully crafted with high-quality polished finish
Portable design and convenient to carry
Made of premium grade brass and copper
Comes in a gift box made of leather
A perfect present for nautical collectors, enthusiasts, and seafarers
#TOP 4

Esschert Design USA LS002 Round Slate Sundial

LS002
Gray
9.75" dia.
Esschert Design USA LS002 Round Slate Sundial Cover
Esschert Design USA LS002 Round Slate Sundial

This sundial clock is a great addition to any garden. Made from gray European slate, the clock is 9.8 inches in diameter and features etched Roman numerals to keep time. Since it comes fully assembled, all you need to do is set it up in your garden, and it's ready to use.

What We Like
Easy to use and requires no assembly
Made from high-quality European slate
Etched Roman numerals add a classic touch to any garden
#TOP 5

Brass Nautical Sundial Compass in Rosewood Case

16052
brown
4.92 x 4.92 x 1.77"
Brass Nautical Sundial Compass in Rosewood Case Cover
Brass Nautical - 5 inches Large Sundial Compass in Rosewood Case Top Grade Calibrated Vintage Gift

The Brass Nautical Sundial Compass is a beautifully crafted solid brass pocket sundial compass, with a rich, antique patina finish. The sundial is made of premium grade brass and comes with a gift box made of rosewood, which is beautiful by itself. The portable design is convenient to carry, making it a valued decorative object, literary metaphor, and object of mathematical study. This stunning brass Sundial Compass is perfect for nautical collectors, enthusiasts, and seafarers alike. It is a gleaming recreation of the classic antique compass that has guided sailors since the 1100s. The size of the wooden box is 15cm L x 15cm W x 7cm H, and the sundial compass size is 12.5cm Dia x 5cm High.

What We Like
Premium Grade Brass
Portable Design
Comes with Gift Box
#TOP 6

UD Dragonfly Sundial

UD
x1718
Black
UD Dragonfly Sundial Cover
Verdigris Finished Cast Iron Dragonfly Sundial with Pedestal

This UD Dragonfly Sundial stands at 22 inches high, crafted from cast iron with a stunning verdigris finish. Assembly is simple, making it a beautiful addition to any space. The sundial not only tells time but also adds a touch of charm to your surroundings. The durable cast iron ensures longevity, while the verdigris finish gives it an elegant look. With its easy assembly, you can quickly enjoy this functional and decorative piece in your garden or patio.

What We Like
Durable Cast Iron
Easy Assembly
Elegant Verdigris Finish
#TOP 7

Whitehall Products Sun and Moon Sundial

1271
French Bronze
Whitehall Products Sun and Moon Sundial Cover
Whitehall Products Sun and Moon Sundial, French Bronze

The Whitehall Sundial is a fully functional outdoor clock that displays the time of day by casting a shadow on the dial. The clock is made from a die-cast, high-density aluminum alloy and is coated with an Alumi-shield all-weather coating, which is exclusive to Whitehall. This clock makes a great gift and is sure to impress visitors to your home. The clock's design is both beautiful and functional, enhancing the curb appeal and value of your home. With the Whitehall Sundial, you can be sure of an accurate and reliable timepiece that will last for years to come.

What We Like
Functional sundial
All-weather coating
High-quality materials
#TOP 8

NEOVIVID Brass Sundial Compass with Leather Case and Chain

MU026
Medium
NEOVIVID Brass Sundial Compass with Leather Case and Chain Cover
NEOVIVID Brass Sundial - Push Open Compass - Steampunk Accessory – Unique Gift for Men - Beautiful Handmade - Sundial Clock – Sun Clock – Steampunk Clock for Him - Antique Decor

The NEOVIVID Brass Sundial Compass is a beautifully crafted accessory that doubles as a functional compass and sundial clock, made of high-quality brass with a diameter of 3 inches. It's a great gift for outdoor enthusiasts, steampunk collectors, and men who have everything. This handmade replica comes with a leather case, chain, and a free brass keyring, making it perfect for antique or copper decor or as a unique anniversary gift for men.

What We Like
Functional compass and sundial clock
High-quality brass material
Comes with a leather case, chain, and a free brass keyring
#TOP 9

Brass Nautical Sundial Compass

1660 b
Brass
Brass Nautical Sundial Compass Cover
Brass Compass - Antique Brass Sundial Compass Marine Boat Gift Pocket Sun Dial in Box Nautical Marine Gift Sun Clock Pirate Ship Replica Watch

The Brass Nautical Sundial is a beautifully crafted pocket compass made from premium-grade brass. Its antique patina finish not only adds to its aesthetic appeal but also makes it a great decorative piece. The sundial comes in a stylish leather gift box, making it an ideal present for nautical enthusiasts or anyone who appreciates vintage items. Its portable design allows you to easily carry it wherever you go, while also serving as a functional tool for timekeeping and navigation. This sundial can also inspire curiosity in mathematical studies, offering both beauty and practicality.

What We Like
Elegant antique design
Portable and convenient
Includes stylish gift box
Great for nautical lovers
#TOP 10

MAH Solid Brass Sundial Compass

MAH
C-3060
Brass Finish
3.5"
MAH Solid Brass Sundial Compass Cover
Anniversary Brass Sundial Compass Gift for Him or Her - Unique Gift Ideas for Husband or Wife, Sundial Clock with Chart for Guidance; Men Wedding Anniversary 50th 40th 25th 20th 1st Year Celebration

The MAH Solid Brass Sundial Compass is a premium quality, handmade product crafted by professionals to add value to your nautical decors, steampunk accessories, and antique collections. The portable design of this sundial compass makes it convenient to carry and highly appreciated as a decorative artifact and mathematical study object. It comes packaged in a luxurious wooden box and is a distinctive gift for adventurers, hikers, maritime collectors, sailors, travelers, and antique collectors. The compass also serves as a literary metaphor and can be used for basic measurements and object of mathematical study.

What We Like
Premium quality brass material
Functional and portable design
Comes in a luxurious wooden box
Valued as a decorative artifact and mathematical study object
Buying Guide Image

Everything You Need to Know About Buying Sundial Clocks

Selecting the perfect sundial clock for your home can be a truly enjoyable and rewarding experience. As you browse through the various options available, you may feel a sense of excitement and anticipation as you imagine how the clock will look in your space.

When it comes to choosing a sundial clock, there are a few key factors to consider. First and foremost, you'll want to pick a clock that fits well with the overall aesthetic of your home. Whether you prefer a classic, traditional look or a more modern and contemporary design, there are sundial clocks available to suit every style.

Another important factor to consider is the size of the clock. Sundial clocks come in a range of sizes, so it's important to choose one that will be in proportion to the space where you plan to hang it. For example, a large sundial clock may be too overpowering in a small room, while a small clock may be lost in a spacious living room.

It's also worth considering the materials used to make the clock. Sundial clocks are typically made of either metal or stone, and each material has its own unique characteristics. Metal sundial clocks are often more durable and weather-resistant, making them a great choice for outdoor use. Stone clocks, on the other hand, tend to have a more timeless and elegant look, making them well-suited for indoor use.

Once you've narrowed down your options based on style, size, and material, it's time to think about the specific features you want in a sundial clock. Some clocks, for example, feature intricate designs and decorative elements, while others are more simple and understated. Some clocks also come with additional features, such as built-in compasses or solar-powered illumination.

 

Ultimately, the perfect sundial clock is the one that speaks to your personal sense of style and complements your home. By considering these factors and taking the time to carefully evaluate your options, you can choose a sundial clock that will bring you joy and enjoyment for years to come.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are sundials accurate all year round?

Sundials can be accurate all year round if the gnomon (the part that casts the shadow) is parallel to the axis of the Earth's rotation. This alignment ensures that the sundial remains accurate regardless of the season.

2. What direction should a sundial face?

The direction a sundial should face depends on your location. In the northern hemisphere, a sundial should point towards the north, while in the southern hemisphere, it should point southwards. Using a compass is an easy way to determine the correct direction.

3. Where is the best place to put a sundial?

A sundial can be placed anywhere as long as it receives sunlight during part of the day. While many believe that a vertical sundial should face due south and be in sunlight all day, interesting sundials can be created on virtually any wall.

4. What are the disadvantages of a sundial?

Sundials have a few disadvantages. They don't work at night or when the sun is hidden by clouds or buildings. Additionally, a sundial is only accurate for the specific latitude it is designed for. Using a sundial built for one latitude in a different location would result in inaccuracies.

5. Where should a sundial be placed in the yard?

To place a sundial in the yard, it should be installed on a horizontal plinth in an area that receives sunlight. It is important to orient the sundial towards true north, which is close to the Pole Star. Careful location selection is crucial for accurate timekeeping.

6. What angle should my gnomon be?

The gnomon of a sundial should be set at approximately the same angle as the latitude of your location. For example, if your latitude is approximately 38º, the gnomon should be set at a similar angle. The high side of the gnomon should be pointed towards the 12 pm noon line on the dial plate.

7. Why can't you use a sundial at night?

Sundials rely on the sun's position to cast a shadow, so they cannot be used at night when the sun is not visible. However, there is a similar device called a moondial that can be used at night, tracking the shadows based on the moon's position.

Editor's Notes

During our sundial clock research, we found 24 sundial clock products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 20,372 customer reviews through our big data system to write the sundial clocks list. We found that most customers choose sundial clocks with an average price of $52.02.

The sundial clocks are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of sundial clocks, including Stanley London, Whitehall Products, Brass Nautical, Esschert Design, UD. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 142 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

Written by
Rebecca Cantu Avatar

Rebecca Cantu grew up in a family-owned retail store for home and kitchen products. She worked online and gave assistance to people to buy ideal products for their sweet home after graduating from Northwestern University with a marketing degree. She has been writing content for online shopping guides since 2011 with her professional knowledge and natural sensitivity of appliances.