Telling time seems more like a job of a watch or cell phone than an old-fashion clock.  But clock towers like England’s Big Ben serve a greater purpose then letting us know what time is it; they also act as open history books and maps as well. 

Although Big Ben is one of the most famous landmarks in world, there are other unheralded treasures and it’s high time we show their elevated faces some love before this planet becomes such a technologically-infused society, their historic beauty and timeless structures become a thing of the past.

Mecca, Saudi Arabia: Abraj al-Bait Tower

Saudi Arabia’s Abraj Aa-Bait Tower may be one of the newest monuments to join the family of clock towers speckled across the globe, and it certainly has made a name for itself in a short space of time.  The tower, which stands at an astounding 1,972 feet, is reportedly the second largest building in the world, but went for gold by becoming the largest of its kind boasting a huge clock face to complement its gigantic structure. 

Since 2012, it has hovered over Mecca’s landscape with 76 floors complete with a shopping center and provides comfort with the Fairmont hotel also located inside.  However, when the clock makes its glorious sounds, Muslims are required to take their praying positions. Even at night, Abraj al-Bait can’t be missed since it twinkles as brightly as the stars thanks to the numerous LED lights illuminating the clock’s face.

Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia: Atkinson Clock Tower

It is the clock that keeps on ticking in the Malaysian city of Kota Kinabalu. In fact, the Atkinson Clock Tower is the oldest monument seen peeking its white head through the city’s green trees at a height of 50 feet.

It was erected as a memorial for a district officer who died of an illness in 1902; and though it faced many alterations (including damage during the WWII destruction of its town) it continues to fulfill a duty as a timekeeper for both locals and tourists. Embedded with a rich history that sends its onlookers through decades of Malaysia’s past, its hushed demeanor is a representation of its strength, proving throughout its many years ensnared by triumph and turmoil it is still able to stand.

Brighton, England: Brighton Clock Tower

The Brighton Clock Tower may not be as popular as its English competitor Big Ben, but with a location in the heart of the city’s square and intricate statues of the Queen Victoria and her family decorating its façade it's certainly the crowning attraction here. 

The clock tower which, was built in 1888, mirrors Brighton’s rich heritage, and is reminiscent of Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee. Never losing its royal significance, its colossal presence speaks volumes with a strategic location that also acts as a point of navigation.

Athens, Greece: Tower of the Winds

Athens is famous for preserving its ancient ruins, so of course it would flaunt one of the earliest clock towers that date back to 50 BC. The Tower of the Winds flaunts an octagonal décor made of marble which is engraved with the eight figurines representing the Greek gods of winds. 

Unlike the many clock towers that we typically see punctuating the skies, this ancient monument boast a sundial and skillfully measured time with water during its heyday.  The Tower of the Winds is a unique architectural gem that links the city to its colorful past, attracting visitors intrigued by Greece's timeless landmarks.  

Dubai: Deira Clock Tower

When it comes to architecture in Dubai, the more unique and cutting-edge the better. For proof, look to the Dubai Clock Tower. The city puts its own creative spin on the timepiece that also doubles as a roundabout. 

The Dubai Clock Tower looks like a bizarre apparatus balancing a face of a clock on its head.  Adding to the collection of Dubai’s exquisite taste in architecture, its striking features can’t be missed, especially because it takes its structures to all-new extremes with a radical look that makes this towering clock seem cooler than any high-tech digital device.