Simon launches clockmakers lawsuit

10:26am Saturday 19th July 2008

Singer-songwriter Paul Simon has sued a musical clock distributor over the use of his masterpiece Bridge Over Troubled Water.

Simon took on Rhythm USA in US federal court in Manhattan, claiming the company never got his permission to sell wall clocks that play the famous tune.

The Georgia-based subsidiary of a Japanese manufacturer "knew or should have known that they were violating (Simon's) rights and have realised millions of dollars from their infringing actions," according to the suit, which seeks 10 million US dollars in damages.

There was no immediate response to messages left with Atlanta-based Rhythm USA.

A company website says its parent company, Rhythm Watch Company Ltd, was established in 1950 and has sold about 20 million clocks worldwide.