The 1995 Magic: The Gathering Renaissance set featuring the Clockwork Avian artifact creature. This card offers unique gameplay mechanics centered on +1/+0 counters.
Clockwork Avian
1995 • Magic: The Gathering • Renaissance
No Listings Available
No listings available right now.
Price History
Description
Among these is the Clockwork Avian, card number 122, an Uncommon Artifact Creature — Bird that stands out for its intricate counter-based design. Illustrated by Randy Asplund-Faith, this card costs {5} mana to cast and enters the battlefield with four +1/+0 counters already on it, giving it a base power and toughness of 0/4 despite its flying ability. What makes the Clockwork Avian particularly notable is its dynamic ability to grow in strength during gameplay. At the end of combat, if it attacked or blocked, it loses one +1/+0 counter, creating a push-and-pull rhythm that rewards strategic timing. Players can also activate its upkeep ability, paying {X} mana to add up to X additional +1/+0 counters, provided the total does not exceed four. This limitation adds a layer of decision-making, as collectors and strategists appreciate the balance between immediate impact and controlled growth. The Clockwork Avian exemplifies the set's focus on artifact interaction and resource management, making it a compelling addition to any collection focused on 1990s trading card game history. Its enduring presence in casual formats and its nostalgic value make it a staple for enthusiasts exploring the evolution of Magic: The Gathering design philosophy.
Have one of these to sell?
We'll pre-fill the product details from this catalog entry, so your listing lands on this exact page. Just add photos of your copy, pick its condition, and set your price.
Card Details
The catalog profile below summarizes the card identity, featured subject, and notable collectible traits.
Catalog Profile
The core identity of the card within the set.
Featured Subject
The subject, team, league, and sport context tied to this card.
Featured
Clockwork Avian
Game
Magic: The Gathering
TCG Attributes
Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.
Uncommon
Randy Asplund-Faith
Card Stock
English
{5}
Artifact Creature — Bird
0 / 4
Card Text
Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.
Flying This creature enters with four +1/+0 counters on it. At end of combat, if this creature attacked or blocked this combat, remove a +1/+0 counter from it. {X}, {T}: Put up to X +1/+0 counters on this creature. This ability can't cause the total number of +1/+0 counters on this creature to be greater than four. Activate only during your upkeep.