Tuesday, August 21, 2007

Alarm Clocks - Your Wake Up Call Part IV

If you absolutely have to have an alarm clock, then it may as well be an item of dcor as well as the thing which wakes you up in the morning. You can buy one to fit with just about any interior decoration scheme so we'll look at a few of those available on the market.
Twin Bells - These are just like they sound and are rather retro in appearance. They have a pair of bells on top and the alarm works by a clanger vibrating back and forth between the two. The clock face is usually circular and it is supported on a pair of short legs at the front. The case may be made from a variety of materials (copper, brass, plastic) and colours (usually silver, brass, nickel or black).
Desk Clocks - Be warned, not all these clocks have alarms so if that's specifically what you're after, check carefully. These clocks are rather stylish, often quite minimalist, made from solid brass either circular or square. Some will include a calendar or different time zones but although they are called Desk Clocks, they are often used to adorn a shelf or mantelpiece in a living room.
Maritime Clocks - These beautiful objects are usually found in a sold brass or chrome case and incorporate features such as a thermometer, barometer, tide indicator and hygrometer. The alarm will sound like a ship's bell and for some, a mahogany gimballed case can be bought separately.
Talking Clocks - There are a few of these around including a flat travel clock which clips shut a bit like a cigarette case and when open has space on one side for a photograph of your loved ones and which uses a recording of their voice as the alarm.
Scientific Clocks - These are often wireless and combine atomic clocks with temperature, humidity and rainfall sensors. Sometimes a remote control is included.
Novelty Clocks - There are almost too many of these to mention but they include cartoon characters such as Donald Duck and Mickey Mouse, sport themed clocks (e.g. golf balls, carts, etc.), comic book characters such as Batman and Superman and car-orientated clocks which represent disc brakes or tyres which rotate.
Of course, you could just stick with a standard looking clock - they do come in a variety of colours.
With all the shapes, sizes and types of alarm clocks around, you should be able to find something to suit your taste.

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