Geochron Models - Boardroom Geochrons

The Original Geochron

The Geochron allows any observer to determine what time it is anywhere in the world. Physically the Geochron looks like a framed world map, about 2×3 ft. in size. The colorful map itself is an endless belt that is driven slowly from left to right by an electric clock motor in synchronism with the rotation of the earth. All known legal time zone boundaries are delineated on the map by dark blue lines which in most cases, converge on lettered pointers on the top edge of the map. These letters identify the standard time zones and also represent the short wave radio prefix for that zone. Original Kilburg Geochron

Specifically, the Geochron illustrates:

Legal time zones

Greenwich Mean time

Greenwich Apparent time

Local Apparent time

Moment of sunrise

Moment of sunset

Duration of daylight

Sun’s meridian passage

Sun’s equation of time

Degrees of latitude and longitude

Two Models of Geochron

There are two models of the Geochron World Clock: Original Kilburg and The Boardroom. Each model has slightly different features, though functionality is exactly the same. The map runs the same, the seasons change the same and both include a minute analog dial in the top right hand corner of the front panel. This dial allows for more accurate time keeping because it displays the exact minute after the hour and runs in unison with the map.

The major differences are aesthetic. Upgrade panels are available on the Original Kilburg model. These upgrades are aside from the seven vinyl finishes available at an entry level price. The upgrades include; Stainless Steel, Powder Coats, Anodized Aluminum and Natural Wood veneers. Boardroom models feature a special “cove molding” on their natural wood front panels.

The History of Geochron

James Kilburg Inventor of the Geochron The Geochron was invented by James Kilburg with the idea that one device could be used to determine what time it is anywhere in the world. Kilburg was a mechanical engineer who perfected his craft and knack for ingenuity while living in Luxembourg. After moving to America, Kilburg devoted his life to creating innovations such as the car cigarette lighter, the first automatic dialing telephone, as well as the automated maraschino cherry pitter. The Geochron however was inspired by less practical reasons.

In 1962, Mr. Kilburg was overseas visiting relatives in Luxembourg. Unable to make the trip to Europe, his wife Dorothy picked up the phone to call him one day. With some help from the international operator, she got through to California.

Unfortunately for her husband, it happened to be 2:00 a.m. This gave Mr. Kilburg all the inspiration he needed to create the world’s first accurate global time machine. In 1965, the Geochron was born.

After many years in California’s bay area, Geochron’s factory moved to Portland, Oregon in the summer of 2007 where it continues to manufacture this incredible product.

The Legacy Continues Today

geochron as corporate gifts For over 40 years, the Geochron has been used by world renowned business leaders, dignitaries and diplomats and even by those in the White House.

Today, the legacy continues. You can still own an original, hand-made of the same exacting standards as originally specified by Jim Kilburg in 1965.

Take a minute to read more about the precision craftsmanship that goes into each and every Geochron.