Magnetic hourglass

Kikkerland's Magnetic Hourglass is like any other, except that the sand is replaced with iron filings. This results in eyecatching structures and stalagmite-like prominences forming and collapsing upon the magnetic…

Kikkerland's Magnetic Hourglass is like any other, except that the sand is replaced with iron filings. This results in eyecatching structures and stalagmite-like prominences forming and collapsing upon the magnetic base. Check out this video they posted to YouTube:

Kikkerland Design - Magnetic Timer

It's set for a one-minute countdown, measures six inches tall—a little more with the stand!—and is so lovely I can't even think up one of those weirdly despairing J. Peterman-style catalog descriptions that starts out comically enthusiastic but slowly descends into liminal terror at mankind's savage vicissitude and the imminent failure of the American state and way of life.

$18 and you better like maple.

Magnetic Hourglass [Amazon]