An armillary sundial is a beautiful garden ornament with a purpose. As the sun moves with the day’s progress, the armillary sundial’s gnomon creates a shadow onto the sundial’s face to establish the hour. Such a product is not only intriguing for the average astronomer but looks beautiful in a garden. Therefore, there are plenty of reasons to buy them – either for yourself or for the astronomy lover in your life.
However, many things must factor into your decision, which we cover in detail below. The best armillary sundial is one that’s accurate, lasts the distance, and will appeal to experienced and novice astronomers alike.
Fortunately, you don’t need to travel all too far to find what could be the perfect garden or home addition. Below, we have listed ten high-quality armillary sundials for sale, as well as points to consider before you get your wallet out. Read on to learn more about the available armillary sundials and what they could bring to the table.
1. Rome Industries Diameter Armillary Sundial
By Rome Industries
If accuracy and aesthetics are important in your hunt for the perfect armillary sundial, then check out the offerings from Rome Industries. Not only is it well-aligned with the sun’s position, but it functions beautifully for astronomical observations as well as teaching purposes.
This armillary sundial, with a competitive price tag, boasts beautiful brass trim with a Verdigris finish, and arrow gnomon of 23 inches, and brass casting. It’s also 18 inches in diameter, so you can rest assured it’s sizeable for your purpose.
While it’s attractive, it’s also a product with purpose. You can use this sundial and its hour markings to determine the time, while also having it sit pride of place in your garden. It’s durable and well made to last the distance.
However, it’s not perfect, so it’s worth knowing what could frustrate you if you buy it. There are minimal instructions for assembly, and it’s not made of brass. Instead, it has brass trim, which may or may not disappoint. Check out this product’s reviews before you make up your mind with earnest.
Features
- 18-inch diameter
- Verdigris finish
- Polished brass
- Arrow gnomon
- 23-inch arrow
- Brass casting
Pros
- Attractive design
- High-quality finish
- Durable materials
- It’s quite accurate
- It’s an excellent ornament for the garden
- Competitive price tag
Cons
- No instructions for assembly
- It’s not made of brass
- It only has brass trim
2. Good Directions Atlas Armillary Sundial
By Good Directions
Aside from some color disparity between what you see online and what you get in person, you are bound to be impressed by what this armillary sundial has to offer. From the stunning Atlas base, which is both sizeable and durable with cast aluminum materials, to the overall structural integrity; this armillary sundial has it all!
Those who have a passion for astronomy will love using this for their research, but it’s also ideal for teaching and general interest too. It boasts a forged steel sphere, an inner brass gnomon, and a hefty weight of 15 pounds to offer peace of mind that it’s well made and won’t move around.
It’s also reasonably sizeable at 28 x 27 x 16 inches, with Atlas on the bottom measuring 12 inches too. As you can see, there is plenty to love. Use this sundial inside or outside your home, and show it off with pride and adoration. It’s bound to add a lot of excitement to your garden or home.
Features
- Cast aluminum base
- Forged steel sphere
- Inner brass gnomon
- 28 x 16 x 27 inches
- 15 pounds
- 12 x 4.25 x 9.5-inch base
- Atlas base figure
Pros
- Exquisite design
- Competitive price tag
- Highly accurate
- Lovely style
- You can use it inside or outside your home
- The gnomon is well made
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- The color is lighter than shown in the product image
3. BestNest Armillary Sundial with Pedestal
By BestNest
If you’re on the hunt for an imposing, giant, and attractive armillary sundial, then this one will surely tick all the boxes. From the generous dimensions to the addition of the Roman pedestal, what’s not to like?
This attractive sundial is likely to appeal to anyone interested in astronomy – or who wishes to be. It comes with a Rome star and star detailing, a Verdigris-colored arrow, and brass accents. It also has touches of brass to add a hint or two of antiquity that you might prefer.
All you need to do is assemble this competitively-priced armillary sundial, set it up in your garden, and watch while it becomes the star of the show. Its large size makes it a prominent figure, while its competitive price tag ensures it won’t break the bank.
However, before you hit the buy-now button, pay attention to the reviews. It’s imperative to find out if there’s anything that might put you off buying it.
Some people note that the installation process is not all that easy. Others say the screws for assembly are also not of high-quality make. What’s more, the cast-iron Roman pedestal base may rust over time without care and particular positioning. Consider these points, compare them to the positives, then decide if this armillary sundial is right for you.
Features
- Roman pedestal
- Rome star
- Brass armillary
- Star detailing
- Verdigris-colored arrow
- Brass accents
- Assembly required
Pros
- Large for prominence in the garden
- Competitive price
- Durable materials
- Well made
- Accurate
- It functions well
Cons
- It can be a challenge to assemble
- The cast iron pedestal can rust
- The installation hardware can be inferior
4. Rome Polished Brass Armillary Sundial
By Rome Industries
If you’re an astronomy enthusiast looking for an attractive piece for your home or garden, then set your sights on this armillary sundial from Rome Industries. While it’s not perfect, it’s worth its price tag and is bound to impress with its full range of features.
It’s relatively sizeable with its 12-inch diameter, and it has a 16-inch arrow that’s both attractive and accurate. Those who are all about durability will be impressed by the polished brass finish, thick brass casting, and overall striking design.
This beautiful sundial would make an excellent gift for the astronomer in your life, but also yourself. The eclectic mix of materials and lovely finish offers an attractive antique finish that many other sundials for sale don’t deliver.
Once you see the competitive price tag, you’ll likely be convinced that this is the armillary sundial for you. However, before you get your wallet out, make sure you’re fully informed. Some reviewers talk about rust forming on the brass when you leave it outside. Because it’s supposed to be brass, it shouldn’t rust. Rusting brass is a sign that it’s not brass at all.
Upon assembling this sundial, others also notice that some parts don’t line up. If this is the case, then accuracy could be a problem. Go over this armillary sundial with a fine-tooth comb and ensure that it’s going to meet all your needs.
Features
- 12-inch diameter
- Polished brass finish
- Thick brass casting
- 16-inch arrow
- Forceful arrow gnomon
Pros
- It features solid materials
- It’s affordable to buy
- Striking design
- It boasts antique features
- Lovely brass finish
- It makes a great gift
- It’s attractive
- It’s accurate
Cons
- Some of the parts don’t line up
- It can rust when you leave it outside
5. Rome Sundial Pedestal Base
By Rome
If you already have an armillary sundial, and you’re now just looking for the perfect base, then this one could be the answer. Rome Industries deliver with a brilliant cast iron pedestal base with a lovely paint job and antique finish.
This 28-inch high and nine-inch wide sundial base is perfect for those who want to add a bit of flair and zest to their property, but have just been waiting for the right product. It boasts beautiful cast iron materials for durability and strength, an antique-style paint finish, and generous dimensions to make it stand out from the crowd.
It’s also affordable to buy, exceptionally detailed, and will ensure that your armillary sundial on the top will be accurate and stylish.
However, before you buy this sundial, make sure you’re aware of any faults it might have. Some people note that there are vulnerable parts that could succumb to rust if you place it outside. It’s also not overly apparent in the online listing that this base doesn’t come with an armillary sundial. If you know everything you need to, then go full steam ahead with the purchase.
Features
- Cast iron construction
- Painted finish
- 28 x 9 inches
- Pedestal base
- Antique finish
Pros
- Generous dimensions
- Affordable price tag
- Ideal for gardens
- Stunning pedestal base
- Durable finish
Cons
- Some of the components are vulnerable to rust
- You don’t get the sundial with your purchase
6. Rome Industries Happiness Sundial
By Rome
If you already have a Rome pedestal base, and all you need now is the armillary sundial to go on it, then you’re in luck. Rome Industries have a beautiful sundial ready for installation that’s all about promoting happiness.
The most prominent feature of this armillary sundial is the top inscription. It says the time to be happy is now. The place to be happy is here. How lovely would it be to put this in your garden and enjoy the peace it brings?
It’s ten inches in diameter, boasts durable brass materials, and is topped off with lovely Verdigris highlights. It will also work with any Rome pedestal base you have now or will buy in the future.
It’s accurate, made by a reputable manufacturer, and is suitable for indoor or outdoor use. This armillary sundial may be a little expensive when you compare it to others, but can you really put a price on happiness? Read the instructions, install it onto your base, and enjoy how well it lifts your garden.
Features
- 10-inch diameter
- Solid brass construction
- Verdigris highlights
- Rome pedestal base-compatible
- Text inscription
Pros
- It has a lovely inscription on the top
- It’s accurate
- It’s well made with durable materials
- Generous dimensions
- You can use it with any Rome pedestal base
- It’s made by a reputable manufacturer
- It’s ideal for outside use
Cons
- It’s expensive
- It doesn’t come with a base
- Instructions for securing to a base are limited
7. Best Selling Copper Sun Dial
By Best Selling
If you’ve been looking for an armillary sundial for some time, but the pricing has never been right, then now’s your chance. This armillary sundial from Best Selling is far more affordable than several other sundials for sale and can likely be a perfect match for your home.
You can use it indoors or outdoors, enjoy the sturdy base for safety, and love how it’s well made and heavy-duty. There is certainly plenty to love.
The copper finish adds a lovely classic touch to your home, while the forged iron materials give you peace of mind that it’s made to last. Because of its generous sizing, it also can become a lovely centerpiece in your garden. You get all these features along with a competitive price tag that far surpasses expectations.
Before you buy it, just be aware of anything that might put you off completing your sale. Some reviewers note that it’s not always accurate and that the paint finish is not perfect. You also have to assemble it yourself with instructions that are not overly clear. Once you jump those hurdles, you can happily add this armillary sundial to your garden.
Features
- Copper finish
- Assembly required
- Forged iron construction
- Indoor and outdoor use
Pros
- It’s accurate
- Affordable to purchase
- Suitable for use in your garden or home
- It looks genuine
- Lovely antique finish
- The base is sturdy
- Heavy and well made
Cons
- You have to assemble it
- The instructions for assembly are not clear
- It’s not always accurate
- The paint finish is not perfect
8. Rome Industries Brass Sundial
By Rome Industries
Release your inner astronomer by purchasing this armillary sundial from Rome Industries. Whether you want to play around with astronomical studies, or you’re merely interested in watching the sun’s pattern, this armillary sundial could be for you.
It comes with beautiful Verdigris highlights, brass materials, and a lovely polished brass gnomon. For those who like to include fascinating artifacts in their gardens, this sundial could easily be the answer. It’s ten inches in diameter, makes the perfect gift, and is also affordable to buy.
What many people like, too, is that it has a poem on the top. The poem is by Dorothy Frances Gurney and says: the kiss of the sun for pardon, the song of the birds for mirth, One is nearer God’s heart in a garden than anywhere else on earth.
All you need to do now is buy a base, find the perfect spot in your garden, and buy it. This armillary sundial is undoubtedly going to put a smile on your face.
Features
- Brass materials
- Verdigris highlights
- Polished brass gnomon
- Motto included
- 10-inch diameter
- Garden tool detailing
Pros
- Affordable to buy
- It makes a great gift
- It has pictures on it
- Lovely poem on the top of it
- High-quality materials
Cons
- You have to buy a base separately
9. Deco 79 Armillary Sphere
By Deco 79
If you have been searching for an armillary sundial for some time that will become the perfect addition to your home office, then this one could be it. While it’s not going to be suitable for your garden and is far more durable indoors, it’s still a lovely armillary sundial to own.
It boasts high-quality metal construction, a lovely antique brass finish, and a generous diameter of 13 inches. It’s also 25 x 16 inches to ensure it’s relatively substantial and worthy of its price tag. Any classic home will see this armillary sundial fit in nicely.
Thanks to its weight, it’s also not easy to topple over, and this shows it’s also made with excellent materials. For die-hard astronomy fans, there are a few things to consider before you buy it. It squeaks when it rotates, and some of the rings also don’t move as freely as they should. Weigh up the pros and cons before you decide if this armillary sundial is the right one for you.
Features
- Metal construction
- Antique brass finish
- Inside use
- 25 x 16 inches
- 13-inch diameter
- 10 pounds
Pros
- Heavyweight
- High-quality materials
- Ideal for classic homes
- A beautiful accompaniment to an office
- Affordable price tag
Cons
- It can squeak when it moves
- Movement is limited
10. Esschert Design Cast Iron Sundial
By Esschert Design
If you like the look of an armillary sundial, but you don’t necessarily need it to work, then check out this product from Esschert. Even though it’s not going to operate as an accurate sundial, it’s still going to elevate the look and appeal of your garden. Sometimes, that’s all you want.
It’s made from cast iron materials to last the distance and makes the ideal garden addition. It requires no care or maintenance and will simply blend in with the cottage or contemporary elegance of your abode and garden. There is plenty to love about this sundial.
It features beautiful zodiac signs for a touch of charm and has a lovely star in the center. It also weighs 11 pounds, which means it won’t be easy to kick over or break. Let it blend in with nature and add much character to your space.
This armillary sundial is also made in China, designed in Holland, and competitively priced for all. Take your time to view all it has to offer before purchasing it for yourself or a loved one.
Features
- Cast iron construction
- Zodiac signs
- Outdoor use
- Made in China
- Designed in Holland
- 11 pounds
- 24 x 13 x 16 inches
Pros
- Durable
- Made for outdoors use
- Affordable to buy
- A great addition to any garden
- It blends in with nature
- High-quality materials
- Requires no care or maintenance
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- It doesn’t function as a sundial
Considerations for Purchasing an Armillary Sundial
Astronomers and would-be astronomers can take great delight in adding an armillary sundial to their home. But given the extensive market and various options, how do you know which is likely to suit your needs the most? When the time comes to buy a new sundial for your property, read on. You can learn all about the possible things to consider before you get out your wallet.
- Price
You would be amazed at how expensive an armillary sundial can be. Some are tens of dollars, but others are hundreds. The more accurate and well made a sundial is, the more it will cost. Therefore, if you intend to use your sundial for its purpose – or research, then prepare to spend a little more. Otherwise, you can end up with an inferior quality product that merely operates as an ornament.
- Accuracy
The goal of an armillary sundial is to work with the sun to tell the correct time, but will it? Not every armillary sundial is accurate, and you can’t try before you buy to make sure that it is. The best way to test a sundial’s accuracy is by referring to user reviews. Those who have tested them out for themselves will be able to tell you if it’s accurate or not.
- Materials
Most armillary sundials are made with brass, but it’s imperative to read the fine print to find out what you’re getting. Some people believe they have bought one made of brass, only to find that it has brass trimming, or that it rusts when outside. Brass shouldn’t and doesn’t oxidize if it’s pure.
You can also buy cast iron armillary sundials that are made to last too. Check the comments for mentions of rust, or whether the armillary sundial you choose is for indoor or outdoor use. - Base
It can be tricky when you buy items online because what you think you’re getting can sometimes differ from what you’re actually getting. That can sometimes happen with sundials. You can buy them with or without bases, and product imagery often shows the two products together. Make sure that you read the fine print to establish if you are buying both the bottom and the sundial, or one or the other separately.
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Last update on 2020-07-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API