Why do Japanese cars separate the clock from the radio? (tuning, Buick)

[southernnaturelover]

I have noticed in many Japanese cars (and maybe European ones too) that the clock is always by itself on the top of the dash where it's sometimes hard to see, rather than being integrated into the radio. Any reason for this? It just seems a little dated to me.

[jaypee]

Styling.
American cars do it too -- for example, Cadillac Escalade, Buick Enclave, Chrysler 300, etc

[Magnatomicflux]

I think he means placing the clock up near the windsheild.

[LRPct]

Originally Posted by Magnatomicflux

I think he means placing the clock up near the windsheild.

You mean up where your line of sight SHOULD be looking out in front of you? Lol

[Magnatomicflux]

Originally Posted by LRPct

You mean up where your line of sight SHOULD be looking out in front of you? Lol

If you want to get all technical about it, then yes. lol

[LRPct]

Originally Posted by Magnatomicflux

If you want to get all technical about it, then yes. lol

Yeah.. sorry, but the saracasm was more directed towards the OP.. lol

[jaypee]

Originally Posted by Magnatomicflux

I think he means placing the clock up near the windsheild.

maybe, except he said " ... rather than being integrated into the radio."

[alpha_1976]

I like it there

[iuyno]

I'm guessing it is so the radio continuously displays radio tuning data, without needing to switch modality from clock time.

[hoffdano]

I have always preferred a separate clock. In many cars I have replaced the factory stereo with something else. And I hate losing the clock.