100 Objects #15: Bundy Clock episode artwork

EPISODE · Aug 28, 2026 · 37 MIN

100 Objects #15: Bundy Clock

from 99% Invisible · host Ellie Lightfoot

In 1888, Willard Bundy created the first employee "time clock" — essentially a souped-up grandfather clock that could, for the first time, produce an accurate record of when workers arrived and left. Though Bundy’s aim was simple, his invention soon sparked a change in American life far broader than he intended. Roman Mars and reporter Ellie Lightfoot trace how the time clock not only ignited a revolution in workplace efficiency and surveillance, but transformed our relationship to time itself. A History of the United States in 100 Objects is a production of 99% Invisible and BBC Studios. Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of 99% Invisible ad-free and a whole week early. Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Episode metadata supplied by the publisher feed · Published Aug 28, 2026

Embed this episode

How the time clock not only ignited a revolution in workplace efficiency and surveillance, but transformed our relationship to time itself.

Distinct summary based on available episode metadata or transcript content.

Ready to play

100 Objects #15: Bundy Clock

0:00 37:41

No transcript for this episode yet

We transcribe on demand. Request one and we'll notify you when it's ready — usually under 10 minutes.

No similar episodes found.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of 99% Invisible?

This episode is 37 minutes long.

When was this 99% Invisible episode published?

This episode was published on August 28, 2026.

Can I download this 99% Invisible episode?

Yes. Use the download control on the episode player to save the publisher-provided media file.
URL copied to clipboard!