La Défenseur du Temps is an animatronic clock located in Paris, France. Created by artists Jacques Monestier, Jan Claude and Michel Duthoit, the clock was installed in 1979 in the courtyard of the City Hall. The clock features three characters that represent different eras of time: Gilded youth represents the past, The old man symbolizes the present, and The poet represents the future.
Every hour, the clock comes to life as the characters move and interact with each other. Gilded youth strikes the old man with his cane, the old man retaliates by hitting the poet with his cane, and the poet responds by shooting a dart at the gilded youth. This choreographed sequence is accompanied by sound effects and music, creating a captivating and entertaining spectacle for onlookers.
The clock has faced several challenges over the years, including vandalism and technical issues, but efforts have been made to restore and preserve this unique piece of art. La Défenseur du Temps has become a popular attraction in Paris, drawing visitors from around the world to witness its hourly performance.
Overall, La Défenseur du Temps is a fascinating and whimsical animatronic clock that showcases the creativity and artistry of its creators. Its combination of mechanical movements, storytelling, and music make it a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Paris.