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The Clock Trick by MattMcGurk

Created by: MattMcGurk

The Clock Trick is a visually engaging close-up card trick where the magician uses a clock layout to reveal a spectator's selected card. After the spectator shuffles and cuts a small group of cards, placing some out of sight (e.g., in a pocket), the magician guides them through a clock-themed reveal. The spectator counts the cards they set aside, and the corresponding 'hour' on the clock points directly to their chosen card. This trick is perfect for intimate settings and requires minimal setup, making it ideal for impromptu performances.

Key features

  • Self-working trick with no advanced skills required

  • Uses a clock layout for a visual and memorable reveal

  • Works with any deck of cards

  • Great for close-up or parlour magic

Pros

  • Easy to learn and perform

  • Strong visual impact

  • No gimmicks or sleight of hand needed

  • Engages the spectator with a creative premise

Cons

  • Requires precise counting for the clock setup

  • May need practice to ensure smooth pacing

Effect

The Clock Trick is a visual and engaging card trick where a spectator selects a card without the magician seeing it. The magician then uses a clock face layout to reveal the chosen card in a surprising way. The spectator shuffles and cuts the cards, placing a small portion aside. Later, counting the cards in the hidden portion matches the position of the selected card on the clock face, creating a strong magical moment.

Full details

The trick begins with the spectator shuffling a deck of cards. The magician gives them a small group of cards (usually 13) to shuffle further. The spectator cuts a portion of these cards and places them out of sight, such as in a pocket. The remaining cards are shuffled again, and the spectator looks at the bottom card, memorizing it as their selection. The magician then builds a clock face with the remaining deck, numbering positions from 12 to 1. When the spectator retrieves the hidden cards and counts them, the number matches the position of their selected card on the clock.

Who should consider the trick

The Clock Trick is ideal for beginners and intermediate magicians. It requires no advanced sleight of hand, making it accessible to those new to card magic. Performers who enjoy interactive, self-working tricks with a strong visual element will find this particularly effective.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The trick is easy to perform, relying on simple counting and spectator interaction rather than complex moves. The most challenging aspect is ensuring smooth handling when setting up the clock layout. With minimal practice, most magicians can perform it confidently.

What magicians say

Matt McGurk describes The Clock Trick as "fantastic" and highlights its visual appeal. He notes that the spectator unknowingly helps create the magic by cutting and counting the cards, making the trick feel fair and impossible. The false recap at the end enhances the effect, turning it into a "miracle." The trick is praised for being entertaining and easy to learn, making it a strong addition to any magician's repertoire.

What people are saying about The Clock Trick

MattMcGurk says...

This is so cool because you're going to ask The Spectator to lie to you and they literally lie straight to your face and you still find the card. It is so much fun—it's great!

Performance videos

Tutorial videos