Awaglass Magnetic Hourglass

The hourglass is hand-blown glass, and instead of sand it holds tiny iron filings. Flip it and they drop onto a magnet hidden in the base, piling up into spiky crystal shapes that look a lot like sea urchins. Watching the pile grow is the whole appeal, and each flip gives you a slightly different sculpture.

On a desk, it’s something that moves while you think, which is why it works for office workers who stare into space. Science fans will enjoy seeing magnetic force shape the filings in real time, and anyone who fidgets will likely find flipping it oddly soothing. It’s also a sensible gift for a coworker or friend who likes odd little objects.

Anyone wanting a precise timer won’t find one here. The filings are more about the show than strict timekeeping, so if you need an accurate countdown, a phone timer will serve you better. Treat it as a desk piece first and a timer second.