The time of his life: Clock designer Amjad Al Hajj ticks his inspirations

Muhammad Yusuf, Features Writer

UAE-based signature clock designer Amjad Al Hajj showcased his iconic works at Downtown Design 2024 (Nov. 6-9), in an event that took place at Dubai Design District (d3) Waterfront. Al Hajj is deeply inspired by the concept of time and is determined to capture it. This, combined with an inborn sense of artistry, makes him create sculptures and wall art crafted from raw materials such as concrete and steel. Though the works are minimalistic and spare in conception, they are monumental in scale and imagination. Al Hajj uses philosophical concepts derived from the natural world, cosmology and a profound, personal interpretation of moments. “I am excited to showcase my new creations at Downtown Design this year,” he said. “My work is more than just timepieces; each artwork and sculpture is a manifestation of moments and narratives.”

Since launching his ‘Perceptions of Time’ collection in 2010, he has focused on exploring the relationship between time and art. Each of his works is crafted with Swiss movement mechanisms, transforming them from mere timekeepers into collectible, functional and landmark artworks. For example, his iconic work, the NAFFCO Clock Tower located in Jebel Ali, Dubai, stands impressively at 13 metres tall. It features a robust steel structure clad in elegant granite and stainless steel. The striking time marker is not only a testament to modern design but addresses critical issues of the day, incorporating solar panel lighting for sustainable illumination. Its blend of durability and sophistication makes it a notable milestone of the area.

Since taking the plunge into the art of clock making, Al Hajj has created an inspiring array of clock collections, among which is the renowned Signature Collection. Crafted from concrete and stainless steel, the clocks feature a particular design approach, with breathtaking aesthetics and superior functionality. ‘Rust’ combines the raw beauty of rusted steel with the elegance of gold, wrapped in graceful leather casing. The timepiece blends function with art and the design celebrates the striking contrast of natural elements. ‘Stroke’ features a dial with bold, brushed strokes. Al Hajj uses the canvas to showcase his mastery of colour and form. ‘Majestic’ is a luxurious masterpiece with rich green marble, gold-plated gears, and a matte gold dial. The timepiece combines regal elegance with striking sophistication, reflecting the clock maker’s artistry. ‘Timber’ exudes warmth and elegance with walnut timber, polished numbers, and a matte gold dial. Matte black and silver gears on an aluminum back brace complete the look. ‘Classic’ combines brushed and chrome-plated stainless steel with warm walnut wood and golden arms. Its layered design and vertical lines symbolise time zones, balancing depth with elegance.

Timepiece titled Majestic.

‘Solaris’ embodies sunrise and sunset with a subtle dial and arms evoking sunlight rays. The colour tones reflect the sun’s atmospheric glow, power and natural beauty. The ‘Big Bang’ timepiece, perhaps the centre of attention at the Amjad Al Hajj space in Downtown Design, merges art, science, and craftsmanship. Inspired by the cosmic event that is said to have formed the universe, it integrates explosive energy and boundless creativity, making it a timeless addition to any collection. In 2016, the Chairman of NAFFCO, Khalid Al Khatib, approached Al Hajj with an idea and a vision. He wanted a monument that would capture the spirit of his company and stand proudly in the heart of Jebel Ali.

From this dream, the NAFFCO Clock Tower was born. Made of steel and granite and blending aesthetics with cutting-edge technology, it rises to an inspiring height and the numbers on its clock face, crafted from the finest stainless steel, stand a striking two metres tall. Inclusive of groundbreaking and sustainable design, the project was an emotional and passionate journey for the designer; it has made a lasting impact mark on the skyline of Jebel Ali. NAFFCO is a Middle East-based manufacturer of firefighting products. Its business is built around fire protection engineering and it has its headquarters in Dubai.

Al Hajj is a visionary architect and clock designer, whose work fuses the concepts of time and design. An architecture graduate of the University of Jordan, he began his career working in Doha, before establishing his successful architectural model-making business, Mimar Models, in Dubai. Following the financial slowdown, he migrated to furniture design and launched an interior fit-out company, A&A Interior Design. His passion for clock-making, which never left him, emerged from a lifelong fascination with the interplay of art and time. The interest deepened as he explored the craftsmanship involved in creating functional art, leading him to develop timepieces that carry a minimalist aesthetic but narrate profound philosophies through workaday materials such as concrete and steel.

Al Hajj’s portfolio includes a range of innovative creations, from his acclaimed ‘Perceptions of Time’ collection to bespoke commissions for private clients and public installations. Notably, his monumental NAFFCO Clock Tower project stands as a testament to his ability to merge functionality and artistic expression. Each of his pieces is made to provoke thought and initiate dialogue about the nature of time. They encourage viewers and users to appreciate the moments that make up their lives. “Artists have enthusiastically depicted clocks and watches ever since mechanical timepieces were invented seven centuries ago,” says fineartconnoisseur.com. “Often these objects appear ... as reminders of human mortality or as symbols of affluence, discipline, occupation, or technological sophistication.” Al Hajj’s timepieces are all of these.