A sundial is the oldest known instrument for telling the time. As long as the sun is shining, a sundial can accurately display the hour. Not only is a sundial practical, but it can be aesthetically pleasing, becoming a decorative statement piece in your garden or home. Here's a roundup of my favorites.
Whitehall Products dragonfly sundial
Soaring insects detail this fun dial
This sundial features a vintage bronze color and beautiful dragonfly accents.
Pros:
- Made from die-cast aluminum alloy
- Bronze-colored finish
- Dragonfly design
Cons:
- May not appear exactly as the image shows
- Bottom may not be perfectly flat
This beautiful sundial measures 12-by-12-by-1 inches and is designed with charming dimensional dragonflies and number indices It is made from sturdy, weather-ready die-cast high-density aluminum alloy with a vintage bronze color. It will look great in your garden, just place it on any flat surface and let the sun do its thing.
A S Handicrafts sundial compass
This one tracks time and location
This pocket watch-style dial will give you the time and your direction.
Pros:
- Sundial and compass
- Vintage nautical design
Cons:
- Sundial design doesn't work as well
This sundial features a vintage nautical design. Its aged golden finish is luxurious and offers an heirloom-style look. It's the perfect accessory to carry along on adventures because it's two devices in one: a sundial and a compass. The two-in-one gadget has a hinged sundial face that lifts to reveal a functional compass. So, you'll never lose your way or time.
The Metal Foundry 'Love is' sundial
Great for marking occasions
This bell-accented sundial features a beautiful quote about love.
Pros:
- Great anniversary gift
- Made from high-quality plastic, metal, brass
Cons:
- Pointer may not be perfectly straight
- May be slightly smaller than expected
This sundial is perfect for celebrating wedding anniversaries. It is decorated with bells, has a beautiful quote about love, and notes the date to honor your special day. The high-quality dial is made with precision and care. This sundial measures 6.25-inches in diameter.
BestNest Rome Father Time sundial
This natural look will be at home in any yard
This sundial features a trunk-style stand, so it'll make a great addition the garden.
Pros:
- Rests atop a pedestal
- Features a nice phrase
- Made from brass and cast iron
- Tree design
Cons:
- Stand and dial may not match up perfectly
- May seem shorter than expected
This sundial stands around 17-inches tall and is 10-inches in diameter. The brass dial sits atop a cast iron tree trunk base, giving it a rustic and elegant design. There's even a raised phrase on the dial's trim that reads "Grow old along with me. The best is yet to be."
Pros:
- Bracelet style
- Great for adventurers
- Dial measures 2.5 inches
- Leather band measures 12.25 inches
Cons:
- Band may be loosely attached to sundial
- Sundial is quite big on small wrists
This sundial is great for any adventurer as it can be worn as a watch. Measuring 2.5 inches, this sundial rests on a 12.25-inch rich brown leather band that is stylish and sturdy. The sundial features a rustic golden finish that contrasts nicely with the brown strap for a vintage look that will compliment many ensembles.
The bottom line
Why you can trust Gardeningetc Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.
The best sundial is decorative and functional. The rustic Whitehall Products dragonfly sundial nods to nature with dragonfly accents. Its vintage bronze finish makes this dial look great on any flat surface.
The A S Handicrafts sundial compass is a handy two-in-one design. Not only does it have a beautiful vintage nautical design, but it works as a compass as well.
Whether you're looking for a sundial to decorate your garden or to bring along with you on adventures, there is a sundial for you.
Why trust us?
At GardeningEtc, we recommend the best products to enhance your life. As expert curators, we handpick products based on quality and usefulness to positively impact your day-to-day, from cart to doorstep. We take our responsibility seriously — testing products, reading reviews, and sourcing knowledgeable outlets to ensure our selections are worthy of your time and money. We deliver detailed product overviews, balancing objective information with subjective opinions, so making the best choice for your home and lifestyle is as easy as possible.
