Why is the number 4 written IIII on clocks?

Question

Shouldn't it be IV instead?

Answer 1

Clocks that are made in the Far East have that marking.
They don't use Roman numerals enttirely the way we do.
It's also cheaper for them to produce the numbers.
But either way is actually accepted.

Answer 2

When you write the 12 (Roman) numbers on a clock, the lower part can come upside down. Most people think IV upside down as 6 in stead of 4. That is why they really use IIII.

Answer 3

I've seen it both ways. I always thought that IIII was done because it looked more "fashionable" to the design of the clock.

Either that, or the designers just don't remember how Roman numerals should be written.

Answer 4

I have never seen it written as IIII on any clock. I have always seen it as IV. Maybe it's just a mistake.

Answer 5

Should be, I've always seen it as IV.....never seen it as IIII

Answer 6

A very good question.

Cecil Adams covered this in his column, "The Straight Dope" (reference 1).

There are several theories, but that historically this is the "way it's always been done" is the most likely.

Answer 7

Because the number 12 is written as IIIIIIIIIIII.

Answer 8

I have never seen that, it should be IV. That is too wierd.

Answer 9

YOU HAVE A DEMENTED CLOCK!!!!!!! does it actually keep time

Answer 10

You had it made in India didn't you?