C4U 5x5 Clock

C4U 5x5 Clock

C4U 5x5 Clock is an enlarged version of the Clock from Cube4You. Instead of a 3x3 grid of clocks, each side has a 5x5 grid, which means 25 dials. The number of pins goes up from 4 to 16. The principle is the same: you need to set all the hands to 12 o'clock. With so many connections, though, algorithms from the regular Clock can't simply be carried over to this model unchanged. You'll have to rethink them from scratch.

How this puzzle works

Each of the 16 pins connects four neighbouring clocks. Depending on which pins are pushed in or pulled out, turning a wheel moves different groups of dials. The clocks are closely linked, so a single move usually changes several dials at once. That's why solving it takes planning, not just repeating a known sequence. It's more of a puzzle to work out at your own pace than a model for chasing fast times.

What to watch out for when turning

• More pins up means more resistance. The mechanism has many interlocking parts. When more than a few pins are up, the wheels turn noticeably harder.
• Turn several wheels at once. When several pins are up, it's better to turn several wheels at the same time. The force is then spread across more parts, so individual components are under less strain.
• Don't take the clock apart. There are lots of small parts inside that easily fall out and get lost. Putting it back together is difficult.

Who is it for?

This model makes sense for those who already know the regular Clock and want to see how the same principle works with more clocks. It's also a good fit for collectors of unusual puzzles. It's not suitable for competition training, because the WCA Clock event uses the standard 3x3 clock. If you're just getting to know the Clock or buying one for a child as a first puzzle, start with the classic version and save the 5x5 for later.

Specifications

• Type: Clock puzzle, 5x5 variant
• Manufacturer: C4U (Cube4You)
• Dials: 25 clocks on each side (5x5 grid)
• Pins: 16, each connected to four neighbouring clocks
• Colour: Purple