Magnetic, Digital Clock with Balls

Gaze captivated as the tiny metal balls rearrange themselves from one number to the next, counting off the seconds and minutes. Behind the clock face lies a matrix of miniature electromagnetic coils each 2 mm (1/12 inch) in diameter. These are activated and deactivated in precise order and patterns to attract, move and hold the 2 mm balls. The transition between two digits, for example "2" to "3", is well choreographed to avoid dropping balls. During the shift, a "wave" of attraction from the number field's perimeter to a centrally collected oval insures that any stray balls are retrieved.

Behind the glass you may view silvery spheres in formation on a black background or cobalt blue balls moving over a beige surface. A wristwatch is being developed with 1 mm balls to dynamically display hours and minutes.