1764 — The Clock That Runs Backwards

In Prague’s Jewish Town Hall stands a clock unlike any other.

Instead of moving clockwise…

its hands move right to left.

A reflection of the Hebrew language — read from right to left.

For centuries it has been one of Prague’s most curious symbols.

Today, that story lives on the wrist.

How it works

01

The Numbers Follow Hebrew Order

The dial is inspired by Hebrew writing, which is read from right to left instead of left to right.

02

The Hands Move Counter-Clockwise

Unlike most watches, the hands rotate in the opposite direction — just like the historic Hebrew clock in Prague.

03

It Still Tells Normal Time

Even though the direction is reversed, the spacing of the hours remains familiar. You're still reading the same 12-hour cycle.

04

Your Brain Adapts Quickly

After a short moment, reading the time becomes surprisingly natural. Most people get used to it within minutes.

2026 Edition — Our Most Refined Altneu Yet

New in this edition:

· The Swedish Hat — a 1648 symbol of courage
· Japanese precision — built to last
· Quick-release straps — new look in seconds


A subtle refinement — for those who know the story.

Shop Men's 2026 Edition
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20 years of heritage

Customers around the world wear the Prague Hebrew watch.

The Full Collection

Faithful to the historic Prague Hebrew clock — timeless, elegant, and accessible.

Prague Judaica family

Made in Prague. By us.

Prague Judaica has been a family business for over 20 years — a father, his wife, and their son, rooted in Prague's Jewish heritage.

The ALTNEU watch is our own design, born from two decades of living alongside the traditions that inspired it.

When you order, one of us packs it. When you write to us, one of us writes back.

A Detail Most Will Miss — But You Won’t

ONLY IN 2026 EDITION

The crown of each Altneu watch bears the “Swedish Hat,” a historic emblem of the Prague Jewish community.

It commemorates the defense of the city against Swedish forces in 1648 — a symbol of courage, resilience, and recognition.

A subtle detail to most.

A signature to those who know.

FAQ

Does the watch really run backwards?

Yes — the hands move counter-clockwise, just like the historic clock on the Prague Jewish Town Hall since 1764. The Hebrew numerals read right-to-left, and the hands follow the same direction. It tells time perfectly — just from a different perspective.

Is it difficult to read the time?

Most customers tell us they get used to it within a day. It's like reading a clock in a mirror — your brain adapts quickly. Many say it becomes their favorite conversation starter.

Is this a historical design?

The inspiration is very real. The Hebrew clock on the Prague Jewish Town Hall has been running counter-clockwise since 1764. Our watch is a modern tribute — same direction, same Hebrew numerals, designed by our family in Prague.

Is the 2026 edition different from the original?

The 2026 edition is our most refined yet. Japanese Miyota movement for long-term precision, quick-release straps so you can switch colors in seconds, and the Swedish Hat crown emblem. Same heritage, better craft.

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