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With the influx of technology in modern automobiles, I find it
surprising that a piece of quite old technology has become the
must-have interior feature of the modern luxury car. Nestled next
to the modern satellite navigation systems and detailed
information centers that let their drivers know everything from
current miles per gallon to the location of the next Starbucks,
the good old analog clock keeps on ticking. Analog clocks, a
modern marvel in the 1600's, has become a ubiquitous interior
element in today's luxury and near luxury cars. The popularity is
one things, but the almost thoughtless employment is more
worrisome. Today's automotive analogs generally employ three key
elements: they are almost always in center position, never more
than four numbers (if any numbers at all), and there is, of
course, always a splash of chrome. What is it about the two handed
clock that exudes luxury? Is it the tradition? The digital clock
has been with us for some time now, yet it can't overcome its
lumpin roots. While driving, the ease of a digital read out is far
superior; also, in the precise world of aggressive motoring, who
wants to be fumbling for some hands? Yet, despite the inherent
benefits of the digital clock, auto designers can't stop
themselves from adding a splash of class, and a hint of dignity
and opulence with the insertion of an old fashioned timepiece. The
digital clock has come a long way from the giant green digits of
the Sony clock radios of the 70's. Modern digitals can be
beautiful, excluding a world of color and styles analog can't
compare with. Its time for a change. Opulence doesn't have to have
two hands. - M.H.
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1. Ford 500
2. Inifniti M45
3. Chrysler 300
4. Maserati Spider
5. Lincoln Zephyr
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