The Roman numeral for 4 is IV, so why do the older and nicer wall clocks of today display it as 4 i’s?
It’s the decision of whoever makes the clock. Here’s a quote from wikipedia "Multiple symbols may be combined to produce numbers in between these values, subject to certain rules on repetition. In cases where it may be shorter, it is sometimes allowable to place a smaller, subtractive, symbol before a larger value, so that, for example, one may write IV or iv for four, rather than iiii."
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Why do wall clocks display the 4 as ‘IIII’ instead of ‘IV’?
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November 21st, 2009 at 3:57 pm
It’s the decision of whoever makes the clock. Here’s a quote from wikipedia "Multiple symbols may be combined to produce numbers in between these values, subject to certain rules on repetition. In cases where it may be shorter, it is sometimes allowable to place a smaller, subtractive, symbol before a larger value, so that, for example, one may write IV or iv for four, rather than iiii."
References :
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_numerals
November 21st, 2009 at 4:20 pm
I think its because V follows IV and its just a way to derail confusion for people with less than perfect vision.Of course I’m not counting out some manufacturers might find it esthetically pleasing to the eye.
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November 21st, 2009 at 4:28 pm
So if you are at an odd angle you would confuse IV with VI since they would both be next to V.
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November 21st, 2009 at 4:36 pm
I agree, its up to the builder..Maybe its his mark…Years from now u may be able to tell his clocks by the markings!!
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