The Clavilux, or Color Organ

The Clavilux was a device that displayed a psychedelic light show on a screen. It was invented by Thomas Wilfred in 1919, who hoped that it would become so popular that one day every home would have one. That didn't quite work out. Though one of these sitting in your living room definitely would be a conversation piece. More info.

The "Clavilux Jr" of 1930 from Bright Eye Cinema on Vimeo.

The Evening News - Jan 10, 1922

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Posted By: Alex - Tue May 19, 2015
Category: Inventions | 1910s

Comments

The guy was a bit ahead of his time. Today most music machines on our computers will do this.

Posted by Expat47 in Athens, Greece on 05/19/15 at 09:59 AM

It resembles an overblown kaleidoscope. I can see why it never became the sensation Wilfred hoped it would become.

Posted by KDP on 05/19/15 at 05:20 PM

Sounds like an early precursor to the laser light show.

Posted by RobK on 05/20/15 at 11:50 AM

If he'd tried to release his invention in the 60's instead of the 30's it might have found it's audience!

Posted by Miles on 05/20/15 at 06:40 PM

I found it to be quite beautiful and soothing.

Posted by Patty in Ohio, USA on 05/20/15 at 09:38 PM

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