Under the background that most of the modern timing methods are cyclic time expression, taking the positive influence of the linear time view on individual decision-making as the starting point, this paper aims to explore the visual time product design of the linear elapse through the analysis of ancient linear timing methods.Based on the thermodynamic arrow of time as the theoretical basis, several representative ancient linear timing methods are selected combined with cases to analyze their functional expression, modeling characteristics and cultural connotations.After the analysis, individuals' perception of the elapse makes them more clearly aware of the elapsed time, thus reducing time waste to a certain extent. This paper puts forward the design strategy from two aspects:the visual expression of the linear time information and the basic elements of time products; the visualization strategy of the linear time information includes unidirectional, uniform and continuous expression of time information carrier and can evoke strong emotional experience about the time loss. In addition, several factors, such as the choice of perceptual media of time information, the emotional modeling design of time products and the rationalization of old forms of sustainable design, should be comprehensively considered by the time product design, so as to design the time products with the merger of function and culture.