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THE NOTEBOOK / Choose a clock

Choose a clock

Shape, sound and a dial you can read.

23 guides

The rear controls of a wooden desk clock beside an open instruction booklet

Checking the UK time-signal specification

Read the named receiving system and exact regional model before treating automatic setting as a useful feature.

An alarm clock beside a passport and wireless earbuds

Choosing an alarm clock for travel

A travel alarm should be easy to operate after a late arrival, not merely small in a bag.

A clearly numbered wall clock mounted high on a tiled wall

A clear time display for a shared room

A shared clock works best when everyone can find and read it from their usual place.

A light wood-rimmed clock against a panelled wall

Comparing plastic, metal and wooden cases

Case material influences appearance and handling, but the finish and construction deserve equal attention.

A black-framed quartz wall clock with a white numbered dial

A second-hand quartz clock buying checklist

A brief, careful inspection can reveal missing information before you buy a used battery clock.