The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →The MB&F Nostromo is a mechanical desk clock sold as an assembly kit: buyers build most of its 222-part mechanism themselves, with the regulating organ supplied pre-assembled. MB&F estimates about 10 hours to complete it. New Atlas reported a price of CHF 12,000 (approximately US$15,000) and a 50-unit production run in September 2026; those terms do not appear on the official product page reviewed, so confirm them with the seller before ordering.
What is the MB&F Nostromo clock?
Nostromo is a collaboration between Maison Alcée and MB&F, presented as a M.A.D.Gallery anniversary project. It is a high-end mechanical table clock whose defining proposition is that the customer completes much of the mechanism rather than receiving a finished clock. MB&F describes the concept as bringing the art of watchmaking to a larger scale, using a movement based on a wristwatch movement.
The sculptural clock stands on three organic feet and its display is angled upward. MB&F says the finished clock can rotate on its feet. The name and aesthetic nod to the spaceship in the first Alien film. Designer Max Maertens is quoted on the official product page: “I am a huge H.R. Giger fan, and I wanted to bring a little bit of the alien world into play. Its name, Nostromo, also comes from outer space as it is the name of the spaceship in the first Alien movie.”
What does the Nostromo do?
The clock displays hours, minutes, and seconds. Its hourly chime can be switched on or off, and the stated power reserve is 14 days.
#1 Best Overall
- DIY Soldering Clock Kit: 4 digital green LED display that can be set for clock, time, temperature, date, and week display with 3 kinds of display modes: time-temperature; time-date-week; time-temperature-date-week
- Time Display Options: 12/24H time display mode with whole daytime prompt function, default 7:00-21:00, includes clock correction function to improve clock accuracy
- Advanced Features: The clock can set 3-way alarm with Monday to Friday work mode option, temperature display in Celsius or Fahrenheit, three built-in music options (To Alice, Ode to Joy, Spanish Matador), adjustable brightness with automatic brightness setting
- High-Precision Components: Single chip microcomputer IAP15W413AS or STC8G1K17, Clock IC DS1302, 5ppm high-precision crystal oscillator, plus time error correction function for high-precision timekeeping
- Educational Learning Tool: Package includes paper instructions and web page with step-by-step soldering pictures and videos, low soldering difficulty using direct plug components, widely used in schools to help students learn basic mechanical and electronic skills through circuit analysis and welding training
What is included, and how difficult is assembly?
MB&F lists 222 components and says only the regulating organ arrives pre-assembled. The maker estimates roughly 10 hours to assemble the clock. The kit arrives in a wooden box with more than 200 components, professional tools, and an art book; MB&F also links to step-by-step assembly video support. New Atlas reports that the manual runs 250 pages and that QR codes in the box link to video tutorials.
This is a substantial hands-on project, not a quick snap-together build. The available maker information gives an estimated duration but does not establish a skill prerequisite or an independently measured difficulty rating. Buyers should expect to follow the supplied instructions carefully and set aside uninterrupted time.
Rank #2
- ⏰【Build Your Own RGB Digital Clock】: Build a functional 4-digit LED clock through hands-on soldering and electronics soldering. The finished clock displays the current time, date, and temperature in real time and can be used as a practical desktop accessory. A creative STEM gift for teens, students, DIY enthusiasts, and electronics lovers.
- ⏰【RGB Display & 12H/24H Time Format】: Switch freely between 12-hour and 24-hour formats and choose between ℃ and ℉ temperature display. The 1.36-inch digital display remains easy to read from a distance, while colorful RGB LEDs let you select your preferred color or use random color changes for a dynamic desktop display.
- ⏰【3 Alarm Modes & Practical Functions】: Set up to 3 groups of alarms with flexible schedules, including every day, Monday–Friday, or Monday–Saturday. The clock also features automatic or manual brightness adjustment, power-off memory, alarm on/off control, and 4 selectable alarm melodies. Two adjustment buttons make setting the clock and alarms more convenient.
- ⏰【Hands-On Soldering & STEM Learning】: The LED board comes pre-soldered, so you only need to solder the remaining electronic components and connections. Clearly labeled component locations and connection points on the PCB help guide the assembly process. Ideal for school STEM projects, home learning, and hands-on electronics practice. Please note that basic electronics knowledge, soldering skills, and hands-on ability are required.
- ⏰【Step-by-Step Installation Manual】: Includes a paper instruction manual with clear illustrations and instructions for the soldering and assembly process. Scan the QR code to access the PDF installation guide, or find the User Manual under Amazon's Product Guides and Documents for additional reference.
Materials and dimensions
MB&F lists brass gears, nickel-silver bushes, and 316 stainless steel for the base plate, dial, axles, gears, base, and spacers. The clock measures 160 mm wide, 123 mm high, and 135 mm deep.
How much does the Nostromo cost, and how limited is it?
New Atlas reported on September 9, 2026, that Nostromo costs CHF 12,000, approximately US$15,000, and is limited to 50 units worldwide. MB&F’s official product page provides an order pathway but does not state a price or edition size in the page text reviewed. Treat the price and run size as press-reported rather than independently confirmed maker terms, and check current price, availability, and ordering conditions directly with the seller.
Rank #3
- 【Multi-Function Digital Clock】Displays time, temperature, and date clearly on bright 4-digit LED tubes. Features multiple melody alarms and an adjustable brightness control for comfortable viewing day or night.
- 【Learn Soldering the Fun Way】Perfect DIY soldering practice kit for adult and electronics hobbyists. Build a fully functional digital clock while improving your soldering skills — ideal for school STEM projects or learning.
- 【Compact & Practical Design】(77x22x34mm) fits neatly on any desk, nightstand, or workspace. Once assembled, it becomes a fully functional clock ready for daily home or office use.
- 【Installation Manual】: The package comes with a paper instruction manual, introduce the soldering method of each component.
- 【Great Gift & Teaching Tool】Ideal for electronics enthusiasts, teachers, and parents looking for a hands-on learning activity. Also makes a thoughtful and unique gift for tech lovers and DIYers.
The official page lists an October–November 2026 lead time. That is the lead time shown on the page reviewed, not a guarantee that a newly placed order will ship in that window; confirm the current estimate when ordering.
Who is likely to appreciate this clock?
Nostromo makes most sense for someone who values the process as much as the finished object: a mechanical-watch enthusiast, a design collector drawn to the Alien-inspired form, or a technically curious buyer who wants to assemble a complex desk clock. Its appeal is less clear for someone seeking a conventional ready-to-use clock, a low-cost project, or a build with a published independent difficulty assessment.
Rank #4
- Multi-functional Electronic Clock: This 24-hour clock soldering kit is equipped with a 6-digit digital tube, accurately displaying hours, minutes, seconds, and date/day of the week. It features an internal alarm system and dual modes of countdown and countup, meeting diverse time planning needs
- Dual-mode Timing: This electronic clock kit supports both countdown and countup modes. You can choose from four different countdown intervals of 5 minutes, 15 minutes, 30 minutes, and 60 minutes, or record the duration of tasks (such as the time taken to complete a test). Through visual time management, it effectively enhances focus in work and study, helping to establish an efficient time perception system
- Colorful Lighting Effects: This electronic clock kit is equipped with 8 LED diodes, presenting multiple colors including green, blue, yellow, purple, and red. It also supports five levels of brightness adjustment and five levels of speed adjustment, creating amazing lighting effects
- DIY Soldering Kit: It adopts a modular circuit design, with all components requiring self-soldering and assembly. The PCB board is clearly marked with component symbols and functions, and is combined with a reinforced acrylic shell. This not only consolidates basic electronic knowledge but also enhances practical soldering skills. It is recommended for those with basic soldering experience
- Versatile Present for Multiple Scenarios: As a better timekeeping tool than a smartphone, it is suitable for students to cultivate self-discipline, helps the elderly manage their daily routines, and meets the DIY needs of electronics enthusiasts. From basic timing to soldering practice, it combines practical value with educational significance, making it an ideal creative present for all age groups
Maison Alcée was founded in 2021 by Alcée and Benoît Montfort, according to MB&F’s company profile. The profile also notes that Maison Alcée received the GPHG Audacity Prize in 2023.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Where to check current ordering details
Use MB&F’s official Nostromo page for the product description and order pathway. For the reported price and 50-unit run, see New Atlas’s September 9, 2026 report; confirm any purchase terms with the seller because the official page reviewed does not independently list those figures. MB&F’s company profile provides the Maison Alcée background and award information.
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Quick Recap
Best Value
- 【Widely Compatible】This quartz clock movement kit includes 3 shaft sizes for panel thicknesses 0–12mm (short: 0–4mm, medium: 4–8mm, long: 8–12mm). Paired with 8 sets of stylish small hands for 3–6" dials, perfect for small clock repairs or DIY projects. Before purchasing, please confirm the thickness of your clock and the required hand length
- 【Ultra-Quiet & Precise Movement】This ultra-quiet quartz clock movement features a no-tick sweep second hand for precise, silent timekeeping. It's ideal for bedrooms, offices, or nurseries where peace and accuracy are essential.
- 【User-Friendly】Thread the movement through the faceplate, attach the hour, minute, and second hands in order, and ensure no hand touches another. An installation guide is included, so beginners and pros alike can get the clock running quickly
- 【Lightweight Aluminum】The clock hands are made of high-quality aluminum, which is lightweight and corrosion-resistant. Aluminum movement may have minor transportation deformation, which is normal and can be adjusted manually.
- 【Package Contents】This kit includes 3 clock movements of different sizes, 8 sets of hour, minute, and second hands. And includes 3 iron hooks, 3 rubber washers, 3 metal washers, and 3 nuts, as well as an instruction manual. Please note that you only need to provide your own AA batteries
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
