Customized Clocks Make Great Gifts

Design a Personalized Clock for a Special Person  

Most of us find ourselves occasionally needing a gift for someone who seems to have everything. Why not design a wall clock as that gift? Whether a person needs to read the time on the wall or not, everyone loves something personal decorating the wall in the room where they spend the most time. Everyone has an interest and appreciates wall decor that recognizes that special interest.

The clock above would be appropriate for that friend who collects anything related to parrots, who has a parrot, or who has a special interest in tropical birds. But using the method below, you could substitute a photo of your friend's own parrot or other bird for the one in this design. You could do the same for a friend with a cat, dog, horse, donkey, or any other animal. And there are always children and grandchildren that are wonderful to see every time you look at the clock. 

Here's How Design Your Own Custom Wall Clock from Scratch On Zazzle

Prepare an image of about 3225 pixels square and 300 dpi resolution and save it where you can find it easily.  .
Square Clock Template Check out more Wall Clocks

To design your own clock, follow these easy steps. Be sure to have the artwork or photo you want to use as your clock face image handy. Here's how I created the clock below.

1.  Pick a shape and size 
2.  Click the customize button under the image.
3.  Click "add image." 
4.  Upload the image from your computer or file on Zazzle. 
5. Add your numbers. In the clock below I did each number as a separate text element so I could make them irregular. If you prefer not to have numbers, don't add them. 
6.  For each text element you can use the edit dropdown menus to change text size, style, and color. I used the "arrange" dropdown to rotate some of the numbers. I also dragged some numbers around to mix them up by clicking the text box of the number to make the box for it appear on the screen, and then I dragged the box to where I wanted it to go. Be sure to use a very large image at 300 dpi resolution. My editor lets me edit by inches, and the large square and round clocks need to have an image 10.75 inches square or in diameter. Small round clocks have an eight inch diameter. When you finish your creation, double check your spelling and make sure everything is as you intended. 
7.  Put the item in your cart.  If you want a similar "Who cares" clock with an image of your favorite place or activity, follow the link to this clock, click "customize," and click the box containing the name of the image already on the product. Then click "change image." You will be able to select the image you want to use and upload it, and it will replace the image that's there. Repeat with any of the text boxes listed under the edit menus. Maybe you don't want to change the numbers, because that's a lot of work, but you might want to change the "Who Cares?" text to something else.
   

Square "Who Cares?" Wall Clock

 Below is another variation on the square clock. (The images I had available seemed to look better on a square clock than a round one.) For this clock I chose an interest -- baking. I just happened to have a picture for it. You could customize by clicking the link to this clock and using your own picture of a lovely cake or pie of loaf of bread to replace my date bars. Or maybe you prefer making soup and you have a steaming pot of soup image. You can replace my date bars with your soup, and then change my text to "It's always time to make soup." Since that's longer, you might need to make the type size smaller to fit it in. If sports or games interest you more than kitchen activities, use an appropriate picture and then change the text to one of these or your own idea.

• It's always time for Wi 
• Chess stops the clock 
• Never enough time to play golf 

You will have some great ideas. My example below is just that an example. In this product, I included a template for adding your image and text.

Wall Clock Date Bars "ALWAYS TIME TO BAKE"


To test my instructions, I just made this new design in a few minutes. I as amazed at how quick and easy it was to do.

Time For Peace Wall Clock with Windmill in Sunset

The Quality of Zazzle Clocks

The clocks you can order from Zazzle are made by the Acrylic Idea Factory in Tuscon, Arizona. Out of the 314 customers who reviewed the clocks they received, the average rating they gave their clocks was 4.7 out of a possible 5. (293 people gave 4-5 star ratings and only 21 gave lower ones.) Many satisified customers don't bother to write reviews, but the unsatisfied customers are very likely to sound off. Most reviewers liked the quality of the clock bodies and were surprised at how sturdy they were.  They expected them to hold up for years of use. Most people were also very happy with the print quality. Many commented on how easy the clocks were to set up and use and on how simple it was to insert and change the AA battery (not included).

In most cases, those who were not happy were disappointed because they had not read the descriptions properly. One person thought she would be getting a clock with real forks and spoons on it instead of an image. Another person complained because the images were very small in the picture on the website and she didn't realize the clock she ordered for children with little fairy figures on the edge was intended for adults. If a figure is too small for you to see the details clearly, most browsers have a zoom feature that allows you magnify the entire page. I know Chrome has this. So if you are in doubt, zoom in and get a good look at the design before you order.

When customizing your clocks with your own images, remember that the quality of the image you upload will determine the how your finished clock will look. Some of the complaints were really due to customers uploading images that did not contrast enough with the clock hands. The clock hands are black, and will look best when they will not be on a very dark background.

A couple of people expected the clock hands to be heavier than they were and were upset because they can bend. But heavier hands would not move as easily and there is a reason to keep them light. It's best to put the clocks high enough on the wall to be out of reach of small children who might try to play with the hands.

To make sure you are one of the happy customers, read all descriptions carefully, zoom in to see image details, and make sure your image is large enough, has high resolution, and will contrast well and not be covered by the clock hands on important image parts.

Keep Calm And Carry On Round Wall Clocks Find other Keep calm Wall Clocks at zazzle.com

Sometimes Seeing Clocks Others Have Designed Will Give You Ideas for Your Own
You can personalize any of these with text or use as is.

I'm hoping some of these will give you ideas for creating your own clocks by customizing or personalizing one of these designs. There is everything here from abstract art to animal, sports, occupational, literary, travel, and children's literature designs. If you can think of it, someone has designed a clock for it. One of the clocks you discover is sure to inspire your own ideas, since when we see what someone else has done, we can think of ways to rework it for someone we know. 

I got a lot of fresh designing prompts from browsing these designs of others. When you click the links here, they will lead you on a merry journey of browsing even more interesting clocks. The imaginations of these artists are limitless.

Whatever, I'm late anyway - aqua blue Clocks
Find additional Wall Clocks

The clock below is perfect for a cyclist. The bottom link will lead you to other appropriate designs with wheels. You will know which will resonate with your friend or loved one. So often I wondered what a teen-aged boy might want, and a sports related clock might be just the thing he would love and not outgrow.

Bicycle Wheel clock with numbers
View other Wheel Wall Clocks at Zazzle.com

What child would not love a special clock in their room with their own name on it? Zazzle has an amazing variety of designs pertaining to almost any child's interest. Find the clock and change the name. Shopping done! Unless you find yourself wanting to buy for more than one child when you see all those fabulous choices. Just be sure you choose a clock with numbers for children who may not be used to knowing where the numbers should be. 

Personalized pink rainbow clock for girls
Look at other Kids Wall Clocks at zazzle.com

Is there a musician on your list? The clock below will fit either a vocalist or someone who plays an instrument. Clocks are also available featuring almost any instrument you can think of, and you can find colors to fit any decor. Great for dorm rooms or music studios. 

Black and white music notes clock with numbers

Is there an animal lover on your list? How better to customize than with a picture of their pet or pets on a clock they will see every day. Many people add "Remember to feed the cat (or dog) " on the clock showing their pet. If a pet has crossed the rainbow bridge, one could add text similar this: "Remember the good times." Just be sure to find a photo that won't have an important part of the face covered with the hands mechanism. 

Beagle Baby Dog Square Wall Clock
Browse Animal Wall Clocks online at Zazzle.com

Penguin lovers will be happy to have so many choices in colors and designs on clocks featuring penguins. There are artsy designs, superb photos, and even cartoon characters. 

What I have showed you above only scratches the surface of the thousands of wall clock designs you can find on Zazzle. To find just the perfect gift, use search terms that focus on occupations, interests, age-related humor, and anything else that comes to mind with regard to that person. In closing, here are more of my own personal favorites. 

Colorful Abstraction Wall Clock
Shop for more Wall Clocks at zazzle.com

Nurses Call The Shots Clocks
View other Nurse Wall Clocks at Zazzle.com

Pink Floral Teacup Personalize Wallclocks
Browse another Wall Clock at Zazzle

I hope you will now be inspired to go right to Zazzle and make a clock. Or if you don't feel quite up to that, I hope you'll want to do a little window shopping in the Zazzle clock department. Enjoy.

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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Reviewing Benefits And Features Of Talking Clocks

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Since my husband was diagnosed as severe sight impaired -blind, we have been exploring technology and devices that may help him. One of these we were advised to look into is a talking clock. 

This simple device is designed to audibly announce the time, and the date. For the model we have you simply press the top once for the time and keep it held down for the date to be announced as well.

It is of course very useful for anyone who has sight loss. However we have found it is also useful for me when I quickly want to know the time and date and through learning more about them I realised they can be very beneficial for many other people as well.

In this article we will be using the terms severe sight impaired, blind, low vision, partially sighted and sight loss as these are the current acceptable terms in my country for people with sight loss. This may change over time and be different in different countries. No offence is intended by any of these terms.

Empowering People With Sight Loss

For people who experience sight loss whether they are severe sight impaired or have low vision, checking the time can be a significant challenge and not being able to tell the time by yourself can be a real curb on independence. 

Prior to getting the talking clock my husband had to ask me the time whenever he wanted to know. This immediately made him feel less independent and for me it was not always convenient. For my husband it was a constant reminder of his sight loss that he had to ask a sighted person whenever he needed or wanted to know the time. 

Traditional clocks rely on us being able to read the numbers or roman numerals often at a distance. Some are very difficult to see if they have patterns or pictures and different colours. People with any degree of sight loss will have different needs and preferences.

My husband needs very clear bold black numbers on a white background with zero distractions and it needs to be very large. The clock would also need to be free from sunlight or glare hitting it, yet bright enough so he can make out the numbers. This is not always possible and we quickly realised it would be difficult to site such a large clock and give it the correct site to make it possible for him to read it. 

The talking clock eliminates this barrier completely by providing a clear, spoken announcement of the time with the press of a button or depending on the clock also the date or even via scheduled verbal alerts.

A talking clock can really help towards independence, allowing people with sight loss of varying degrees  to manage their daily routines without needing assistance from a sighted person.

You can choose a basic talking clock that can help you by simply telling the time and knowing the correct date, or more advanced models. Either way a talking clock gives a much higher level of independence.

 Extra Large Talking Button Clock - for The Blind, Elderly or Visually impairedCheck Price

Some talking clocks do not have any readable indicators while others may have a digital reading of date, time etc in large text. It all depends on what you personally need and find useful. 

The advanced models can do many tasks and have different features. I have listed some features here to give you an idea of what can be available. 

• Tell the time
• Tell the date.
• Set alarms
• Organise appointment and social dates
• Birthday and special day reminders
• Chime on the hour
• Reminders to take medication
• Different levels of brightness on the display 
• Customisable themes.
• Customisable language
• Lighting differentiates time zones during the day/night
• Temperature readouts
• Activated by voice controlled commands.
• Some with no visual display, others with large size and contrasting visual displays

Black and white contrast talking clock showing large button to activate

 Who Else Could Benefit From A Talking Clock? 

Clearly a talking clock can assist people with a visual impairment. However it does not stop there.

It got me thinking who else may benefit from a talking clock and I believe it may help older people who might have difficulty reading clock faces from a distance, perhaps even young children who need to know the time and have not yet reliably learned to read a clock face or digital clocks.

They would be a useful aid for people who cannot learn to tell the time on a clock, or for people who through various illnesses, learning difficulties, disabilities, who have memory issues, or dementia find reading a standard clock more challenging.

Additionally, talking clocks might benefit elderly people who may struggle with small text on standard clocks, and the advanced models might assist professionals who need to keep track of their schedule.

Talking clocks simplify timekeeping, and if technology is for anything surely it should be to make our lives a little easier. 

【Upgraded】Digtal Clock with Voice-Talking Day and Date for Seniors, 19 Alarms & Custom Reminders, 10-Level Auto Dimmer, Auto DST, 8 Colors Display Clock for Elderly Dementia Alzheimers, with RemoteCheck Price

Talking Clocks Are Convenient

Clearly talking clocks are a useful aid for a person with sight loss. However as we have found they can also be really beneficial to those with out sight loss. We now have several talking clocks around the house in places we regularly walk past and I now find my self using the talking clock much more than the sighted clock!

It is very unobtrusive, ours is a simple black and white device  certainly small enough to carry and light. It manages to both blend into the decor and yet be noticeable enough so my husband knows where it is.

Other clocks may have different colours such as blue, red or yellow and be smaller or larger. Many can be placed on a surface and some can be wall mounted. It all depends on what the person prefers. 

I especially use it for knowing the date especially if I don't have the computer or TV on. I often don't have the right glasses on to see our wall clocks and it is so convenient to punch the talking clock as I walk past and get the time and date so easily. 

You can buy talking clocks that are very simple and so easy to use with just the time and date or you can get advanced ones with a multitude of features and tasks. 

It has become a normal way to tell the time in our house. We didn't plan it this way but it does make my husband feel better that we just use his talking clock as a normal device, rather than just his special device to tell the time. 

 ORKA Talking Clock. Voice Recordable Ex Large Medication Pill Reminder. Talking Alarm Clock for Dementia, Hearing, Visually impaired Seniors-Digital Day Clock with Multiple Customized Alarms WhiteCheck Price

Aspects Of Talking Clocks To Be Aware About.

While I think generally they are a huge benefit, there are a few things to be aware of. 

Talking clocks can be run on batteries or plugged into electricity points, both have their good and bad points. We have the ones run on batteries and felt these were more portable, so that they can be taken into different rooms and taken with us on holiday. Clearly we need to make sure we always have a stock of replacement batteries either single use or ideally rechargeable.

If we had an electric model it could be plugged in around the house without the need or worry to keep a stock of batteries handy.  However, there is always the risk that in the event of a power cut or power outage it of course would not work. It is important if buying an electrical one to ensure that the features and time automatically reset after a power cut or outage is over. 

The solution is probably to have one of each, some of the electric models seem to carry more features, yet the battery ones are simpler, easy to use and more portable.  

By the very fact the talking clock is a fairly loud announcement of the time, it is impossible to privately check the time! So for example if you just wanted to check the time to see if guests ought to be leaving or a meeting has gone on too long, it is really a public announcement. They are not ideal in situations where discretion is required!

A talking clock can take a little time to get used to. At first my husband did keep asking me the time and I reminded him to use the talking clock, after a few days or weeks it is just a normal habit.

The fact it is an audible time check can be disturbing if there are others in the house having quiet time or sleeping.

It may be more disruptive if there are several people in the house, who may not want to know the time in this way and might find it disturbing.  

While it is loud enough, if the environment was noisy or lots of people were talking or music playing it might be more difficult to clearly hear it. 

You need to choose the clock voice that works best for you. It all depends on the model if you can customise the voice and some of the voices might not suit you. Some voices are clearer and more calm than others. So it is worth checking which voice the model uses and if you are able to customise it.

 GOLOZA 7'' Digital Calendar Clock, Talking Clock with 10 Volumes, 6 Display with 10 Color Modes, Auto Dimmable, Alarms & Birthday & Holiday Reminders, 3 Pill Reminders Clocks for Kids Adults SeniorsCheck Price

We both feel the positives far outweigh any negatives and now would not be without it. We agreed at the outset of my husbands diagnosis of severe sight impaired that we would do everything possible to maintain his personal autonomy and independence. This little device of a talking clock has certainly been very helpful in this respect. 

Advancements in Talking Clock Technology

Our talking clocks are models that tell the time and date and can be used to set an alarm. At the present we are happy with these features but there are models that can do much more. 

There are a range of talking clocks now from the basic time and date clock to ones which integrate with smart devices and use Artificial Intelligence. 

Some have customised features or a choice of features and languages. As mentioned previously there are talking clocks which also set date reminders, medicine reminders and alarms. 

Of course there are also talking watches which is on our wish list for something else to help my husband. 

Technology is advancing and if it can assist in keeping people more independent for as long as possible that is a positive. 

I think a talking clock would make a very thoughtful gift for anyone who is finding it difficult to see or read a standard clock. 

It might seem a small thing, many of us take for granted until we cannot do it,  but being able to tell the time and date by yourself is a huge deal for self esteem and independence.  

As the talking clock technology evolves I think it will become increasingly useful and versatile, not only for people who are sight impaired, but for many people. 

Read More Product Reviews on ReviewThisProducts.com 

Reviewing Sensory Garden For A Person with Sight Loss Part One 

Reviewing Sensory Garden For A Person With Sight Loss Part Two 

Reviewing Benefits And Features Of Talking Clocks by Raintree Annie

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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Wall Clocks Kids Like

A Gift Guide for Choosing Wall Clocks Your Kids Will Like

Children need clocks as much as grownups! School age children need to check a clock to know when the important segments of their day are happening -- time for breakfast, dinnertime, school time, homework time, bedtime. And what about 'playtime'... a most important part of a child's day!

Toddlers and pre-schoolers will enjoy colorful clocks or clocks that look like a favorite character they know about. Wall clocks for kids can be a fun décor on their bedroom wall even before they are old enough to 'tell time'.

Since kids need clocks, why not pick one that fits the theme of their bedroom or represents their favorite cartoon character, playtime buddy, hobby or animal. They will be more likely to 'keep track of time' if their clock represents something they can relate to.

This page has a selection of clocks that kids will really like. Browse through and find your child's favorite theme.

Superhero Wall Clocks

Superhero Spider Man... - A Clock for Kids Who Like SuperHeros!

This Spiderman Disney Marvel Red Wall Clock features a printed Spiderman face with two hand dial and a red casing. Your youngsters who like Superheros will enjoy having a clock on their bedroom wall that reminds them of their favorite superhero.

 

Cute Clocks for Girly Girls...

For your budding ballerina...

What little girl wouldn't love a cute wall clock featuring ballerina designs. This will look so sweet on a bedroom wall of your future ballerina!

This decorative “Ballerina Girl” wall clock has a wood-like colorful design of a ballerina girl. It measures 10 inches in diameter with easy-to-read large black Arabic numerals and hands. 

Wall Clocks Boys Like

Football Wall Clock for your Sports Fan

This is an America Football Themed Wall Clock with a 12” black dial and a sporty football motif. The clock has bold white printed numbers and a crystal-clear clock cover. In addition to being perfect for a young lad who likes football, this clock would also go well in that ‘man cave’ for the football fanatic dad! 

If your boy loves a different sport....

Football is a favorite, but there's a Wall Clock to be found on Amazon for lots of Sports. Just do a search for sports wall clocks and you'll find lots of choices in a multitude of sports.

Sports clocks are available for fans of football, baseball, basketball, soccer, golf and more. Individual favorite NFL and MLB team clocks are listed. There are even clocks with the theme of particular college teams.

Whatever kind of sports fan you are, a clock can be found to show your team spirit.

Trains & Planes, Cars & Trucks

Little boys especially love 'Things that Go' - trains and planes, cars and trucks. Anything with wheels and an engine is of interest in the rough and tumble world of boys. A wall clock in a favorite transportation theme, will keep their attention long enough to see what 'time' it is. :)

This Steam Engine Train Wall Clock is 10" in diameter with a wooden MDF, UV printed design.

Summary

Learning Resources Big Time Teaching Clock

Kid time is fun time... as far as children are concerned. So when it comes time to teach them to "Tell Time", making it a fun game works best. The website page "Learn to Tell Time" helps children to learn to tell time in a fun, interactive learning experience.

This Learning Resources Teaching Clock is a great way to help kids grasp time-telling skills. The clock has hidden gears to maintain the correct hour and minute relationships. It has easy-to-read hour and minute markings.

Wall Clocks Safety Notes:

These featured wall clocks for kids are all 'cordless'.  One AA battery required (not included, unless otherwise stated).

*This guide to the best wall clocks for kids was originally published on November 9, 2014. While the original site is no longer active, Wednesday Elf has brought the best of that content here for you.

 

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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A Clock Gift Guide

 A review of a Gift Guide for clocks!

Everyone needs to know the hour, minute or second sometime or other, making clocks a necessity. So why not find an interesting-looking timepiece to give as a gift or buy for yourself when there are so many choices available? They can be found to suit any theme or motif in any room in your house, and the interests of many family members or friends on your shopping list.

When you need to shop for a gift, think CLOCKS

Shopping for a Unique Clock

This page compiles a group of unusual and unique Clocks - and websites where they can be found - to save you shopping time. The ones featured here will fit into your space and budget easier than London's BIG BEN pictured here! :-)

Clocks~In Every Shape and Form

There are clocks for your wall and mantel, for your desk and more. There are alarms and radios that wake you up at the correct time. There are some to fit your home décor, to suit your personality or reflect your favorite hobby. There are some for Sports Fans and lots for kids. They come in analog and digital versions. They come with big numbers and NO numbers! Whatever color or style or feature you want or need, you'll find one that is uniquely YOU!

Uniquely Yours ... Wake up in the Morning to More than Just the Hour!

Coby Picture ClockCheck Price

 

The Coby digital photo frame displays JPEG photo files and plays MP3 and WMA music files. It has a photo slideshow mode. It is also digital with an alarm, a calendar and displays the current temperature.

This would make a perfect gift for a student away at college, a soldier stationed overseas, or the grandparents. A practical clock, plus a digital photo viewer filled with your favorite photo images for that special someone. .

  

"We're Gonna Rock Around the Clock Tonight!"

Being a teenager in the 1950s, Bill Haley & His Comets sang to us about 'clocks' in a way we'll never forget. Dancing to this tune was a time we loved. Listen to this favorite 'clock' song while you browse through the clocks on this page.

"Rock Around the Clock" by Bill Haley

Songs About Time…

Singers and song writers have given us the time in many ways through song titles. A few are listed below. I'll bet you have some favorites too.

• "Rock Around the Clock" by Bill Haley
• "Time After Time" by Cyndi Lauper.
• "Time in a Bottle" by Jim Croce
• "The Last Time" by the Rolling Stones
• "Any Time At All" by the Beatles

Clocks for Kids

Hickory, dickory, dock,

The mouse ran up the clock.

The clock struck one,

The mouse ran down,

Hickory, dickory, dock - Clocks for Kids

Paladone R2D2 Alarm Clock - Perfect Decor for Star Wars Fans - USB Cable Included - 13 cm (5Check Price

 

 

Two favorite themes kids relate to these days -- Star Wars and Legos. My grandson is crazy about both.... and his favorite is R2D2!

Decorate your child's room in a fun favorite and help them keep track of time in this delightful way!

Lego Star Wars from Darth Vader to a Storm Trooper to R2D2 and more.... Star Wars Lego figures make fun clocks for kids!

Even a clock that does not work is right twice a day.

~Polish Proverb

Movies, Books & TV Shows with Clock Titles

Clocks and time itself play a major role in life, so it isn't surprising that book authors and producers of movies and television shows base their stories around the passage of time. Some of the most famous movies and books of the past reflect this. See how many you recognize in the list below:

• 12 O'Clock High
• Clockwork Orange
• Rock Around the Clock
• One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest
• High Noon
• 48 Hours

Favorite Hobby

3D DIY Wall Clock, Kitchen Coffee Decor Wall Clocks Frameless Large DIY Wall Clock Wall Sticker Home Decor for Living Room Bedroom Decoration (Black)Check Price

 

If your 'hobby' is in the field of fiber arts, like me, time spent in your craft room would be fun with a clock that represents your favorite craft, like this 'crafty' one! You can also search Amazon for a clock with the design of your favorite hobby!

Time to Vote

What's Your Favorite Way to Track the Passage of Time?

1. I look at the clock on the wall.
2. I use my computer.
3. My cell phone is the handiest way.
4. I wear a watch.
5. I'm retired! Who cares what time it is? :-)

*Leave me your favorite choice  (by number) in the comments. 

A Timely collection for any occasion or room décor

Whether you like modern or old-fashioned, funny or funky, streamlined, ornate or simple, there is a special CLOCK made just for you and your interests. I hope you have enjoyed browsing the choices I've presented here.

Check out more Clock reviews on
ReviewThisReviews: Clocks

*This Clocks Gift Guide was originally written on November 12, 2014. While the original site is no longer active, Wednesday Elf has brought the best of that content here for you.

*Some images in this gift guide are from Pixabay.

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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Reviewing The Acu-Rite Alarm Clock

Replacing An Old Alarm Clock

We just purchased the Acu-Rite Alarm clock shown in the image at the left. We needed to replace our old alarm clock/radio because it no longer had a good digital display of the numbers and some of the buttons to change the time or alarm settings no longer worked. Now in all fairness to the old model that we replaced it was about 31 years old. (No one could ever accuse my husband and I of not getting our monies worth out of our stuff!) Suffice it to say, it was past time for our old alarm clock to take a journey to the big electronics shop in the sky. It had a good life and served us well;  may the odds forever be in it's favor and the force be with it. It was after all a faithful and loyal player in our life's game and stood by us like a faithful Jedi for so very long. 

Out with the old and in with the new

Wowsers! Technology in alarm clocks has grown in the last 30 years! When I saw the features of our new Acu-Rite alarm clock;I was duly impressed and did not hesitate to order one for us.

Acu-Rite Alarm Clock

I decided that we did not really need a combination alarm clock and radio, since we rarely listen to the radio in the bedroom anymore. What first caught my eye with the Acu-Rite alarm clock was the large digital display of the numbers. The old one had small numbers and if I didn't have my glasses on the result was just a red blur. Who wants to grab their glasses in the middle of the night to see what time it is? Well, I am embarrassed to admit that I did that very thing for years (years I tell you!) and now that I have this one with the large read-out; I have to wonder why it took me so long to switch. Could I be old and set in my ways? My kids would say a resounding yes to that! Besides it is really difficult for me to part with something when it still works. Shoot, it still took me a couple of months to come to my senses and decide to just replace that old faithful clock. I get attached to things is my only defense.

Besides that large read-out that I don't need my glasses to see there are other features that I just love! The alarm is a nice beeping sound that doesn't make me shoot up out of the bed, startled half out of my mind. (I'm sorry old alarm clock your obnoxious buzz was enough to wake the dead and I never got used to it - even over the course of 30+ years!) The snooze button is right in the front and big enough that I do not have to grapple my hand all over the place to touch it.

Now for the feature that surprised me and I just love it! The alarm clock has a feature for DST. When you set the time it allows you to put the date in and on the bottom of the clock there are settings to pick what time zone you are in and to turn DST on or off. Glory hallelujah! No more worrying about changing the clock forward or back when the time changes!  One less clock to deal with in the house! Awesome-sauce!

There is also a battery back-up in the alarm clock; so when the power goes out the clock still keeps time. I love that feature! We get short little power surges every once in a while and they always resulted in me having to reset the time and alarm on the old model. When those storms roll through and cause a power outage, I won't have to worry my old little head about resetting my alarm clock anymore. I am delighted!

So, if you are in the need of getting a new alarm clock or perhaps you are looking for one as a graduation gift for someone who will be going on to college in the fall or moving into their own apartment after college; I highly recommend the Acu-Rite alarm clock. It is relatively inexpensive and does the job pretty darned well.

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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The Best Loud, Easy to Read Multi-Event Digital Timers

The ThermoPro TM02 Digital Dual Kitchen Timer is the best, most intuitive, easiest to read and loudest multi-event digital kitchen timer I have owned in many years. In this product review, I will share the features my husband and I love most about this recent addition to our kitchen, as well as a few others considerations to help you decide whether the ThermoPro TM02 might also be the best multi-event digital timer for your needs. 

If you want to be able to time three dishes, activities or other events concurrently, the OXO Good Grips Triple Kitchen Timer is another excellent option, as long as you don't mind having more (and smaller) buttons and a more compressed display for the three countdown timers.

I often need to set timers for concurrent tasks and activities, especially during holiday cooking and baking marathons and when entertaining. A multi-event digital timer is less expensive, more convenient and more space-saving than two or three single-event models. I prefer ones with intuitive, easy-to-read controls that I can pause and restart with a touch, unlike mechanical dial units.

Digital Kitchen Timers Have Gone Down in Price, Quality, Longevity and Ease of Use 

The best timer I've ever owned was an OXO Good Grips triple digital kitchen timer that I bought roughly 20 years ago. Setting and switching between the three timers was simple and intuitive. The numbers on the backlit digital LCD screen display and the labels on the buttons were easy to read. The alarms had distinct beep patterns (single beeps, double beeps, and triple beeps for events one, two and three) that made it easy to identify which timer was going off, even when I was in a different room. This model was a workhorse that performed reliably in my kitchen for many years before the LCD display eventually started to fail (as these types of digital display screens inevitably do). 

When I went to order another one (about 10–12 years ago), I learned that the manufacturer had discontinued that model. The newer version had more bells and whistles, which I neither wanted nor needed. As a result, navigating, setting and clearing the multi-event digital timers (the unit's core functions) was less straightforward and intuitive on the redesigned OXO Good Grips triple kitchen timer versus its predecessor. Based on the many negative product reviews, I wasn't the only customer who was upset by the design and functionality changes in the newer model. 

Finding a worthy replacement has been a surprisingly challenging, time-consuming and lengthy undertaking. Unfortunately, like many other products, digital kitchen timers have declined substantially in quality. Over the past 10 years or so, every model I have purchased, regardless of price, has had to be replaced 12–18 months later, when one or two segments of the digital numbers no longer show on the LCD display. 

After the display on my second replacement multi-event timer developed a "dead spot," I decided to replace it with a pair of single-event digital kitchen timers. I had hoped that a simpler display screen might not fail as soon, which turned out to be wishful thinking. However, switching from a multi-event model to two bare-bones ones did have one benefit: Whenever the display started to fail on one of them, there was another that still worked and could tide me over until a replacement arrived.

Resuming the Search for a New Multi-Event Digital Timer, Using Updated Requirements

When the LCD display on one of our most recent basic timers developed a "dead spot" a few weeks ago, I decided to see whether any new multi-event kitchen timers had been introduced since the last time I had looked several years earlier and, if so, whether one of them might be a good fit for my husband's and my current needs, which had changed somewhat since my previous searches. 

My first step was to reevaluate, update, and reprioritize our multi-event digital timer requirements list. For example, we no longer entertain as frequently or elaborately as we used to do when we were in our thirties and forties, and our vision and hearing aren't as sharp as they were back then. These days, we would much rather have a dual event kitchen timer with larger, easy-to-read numbers than a three-event timer with a more cramped digital display and smaller numbers that are harder to read. A bright, backlit screen, loud alarms with adjustable volume, large, well spaced buttons with easy to read labels, and an intuitive interface that is simple enough to figure out (and remember) without referring back to the instruction guide or manual. 

My Favorite Easy to Read, Loud Alarm, Multi-Event Digital Timer (Two Event Countdown Timers)

ThermoPro TM02 Dual Event Digital Kitchen Timer

When I was evaluating and comparing products against our new "wish list," I was excited to find the ThermoPro TM02 Digital Kitchen Timer, which seemed to tick all our most important boxes. To my surprise, my husband became just as excited as I was when I took him through the photos, description, specifications and product reviews on Amazon. 

The ThermoPro TM02 Dual Event Digital Timer has a large, easy to read LCD display. The bright blue backlight comes on for 10 seconds when a countdown timer starts or stops and when the alarm goes off.

We have been using our new ThermoPro TM02 multi-event timer several times a day since it arrived a few weeks ago and we're both delighted with our purchase.  

Of course, only time will tell how long the LCD display will last, but we're really impressed with the thoughtfulness and attention to detail that went into this timer, so we're cautiously optimistic. 

Even when the backlight is off, the large numbers of both countdown timers are very easy to read. The front has five large buttons with high-contrast, intuitive labels. 

Why We Love It:

• Accurate. Unfortunately, not all digital timers are!
• Easy to read, tilted display with large digits. Unlike many of the smaller, cheaper kitchen timers we have used, the ThermoPro TM02 Dual Event Digital Timer's large, sturdy kickstand stays put and keeps the display at a good angle on the countertop for hands-free viewing. 
• Large, bright, backlit display. The oversized* LCD display takes up most of the real estate on the front of this timer, which provides enough room for both countdown timers to have large, numbers that are easily legible even when viewed from an angle versus head-on, and even when the bright blue backlight is off.
  * The manufacturer describes it as a 2.6-inch LCD screen. Mine measures 2.375" tall by 2.125" wide and 2.875" on the diagonal. 
• Simple, intuitive, clearly labeled controls. There are just five large, clearly labeled buttons on the front, plus one mode selector switch and the volume adjustment button on the back. 
• Ten-second backlight conserves batteries. The blue backlight comes on any time a button is pressed, e.g., to set, start, pause, restart, or stop the timer. Since it's very bright (which is wonderful), it only stays on for 10 seconds each time, so it doesn't chew through batteries like some others we've owned.
  • Some customers have complained that the backlight doesn't stay on long enough. We haven't found that to be an issue, especially since pressing any button turns the light back on for another 10 seconds.
• Loud alarms with adjustable volume and silent alarm/mute mode. Pressing the small volume button on the back allows you to cycle through four alarm volume settings. The low, medium and high volume levels range from 70-105 dB. We find the medium volume setting loud enough to hear from one or two rooms away. There is also a volume Off setting that mutes the alarm so you can see when the timer goes off without disturbing anyone else. 
• Convenient memory function. After the countdown finishes, the timer automatically returns to the previous setting. For example, I make a large mug of herbal tea almost every day, and the kind I make most often steeps for seven minutes. After Timer 1 goes off and I press the Stop button, it automatically reverts to seven minutes unless I actively clear the memory, so that all I have to do is press the Start button the next day when I want to make tea. 
• Set each countdown timer for up to 23 hours 59 minutes. Some digital timers have a maximum time limit of only 60 to 90 minutes! 
• Choice of 12/24 hour clock format with date function. Although this feature isn't important to us, many people love it. 

A sturdy pull-out kickstand keeps the ThermoPro TM02 dual channel multi-event timer stable on your countertop, or use the two strong magnets to attach it to your refrigerator or another metal surface. A simple, three-position switch toggles between the timer, clock and clock set modes, while the small button underneath controls the adjustable volume alarm loudness settings.

Other Considerations:

• You can't program seconds. We don't anticipate this being an issue for us. However, there are certain recipes (and other uses) for which the ability to time in 15- or 30-second increments is essential. So, if you work in a commercial or restaurant kitchen, this could be a deal-breaker. Otherwise, if you need this capability only infrequently, you can set the timer to the next full minute and monitor the digital display until there are 15 or 30 seconds remaining in the countdown (or use a countdown timer app on your mobile phone for those situations).
• Some people find even the low volume (70dB) setting too loud. My husband and I have not found this to be the case. Your mileage may vary.
• No dedicated "Clear" button. It's quite common for digital timers to be reset by pressing the hour and minute buttons simultaneously, rather than having a dedicated "Clear" button, and it's a practice the America's Test Kitchen reviewers said they didn't mind as long as the buttons were clearly labeled and intuitive. However, some customers still object to it. 
• This model doesn't switch to clock mode automatically when the countdown timers are not in use. Since the clock on our microwave oven displays the time whenever we aren't microwaving something, we prefer having the display remain in countdown timer mode unless we actively switch it to clock (or clock set) mode. However, some customers have complained about having to switch from timer to clock mode manually.
• The neodymium ("rare earth") magnets on the back are very strong, but the foam adhesive discs holding them in place are not. My husband and I prefer to keep our kitchen timers on the counter, so this isn't an issue for us. However, if you plan to keep your digital timer on your refrigerator door, one Amazon reviewer recommends prying out the magnets with a thin screwdriver or awl, completely removing the foam adhesive pads and any glue residue, and then using a strong epoxy adhesive to glue the magnets directly into the round, recessed areas in the housing. Be sure to follow the epoxy manufacturer's instructions for preparing the surfaces and applying and curing the glue.
• Note: Customers who complain that the magnets are not strong enough are mistaken. The problem is not the neodymium magnets, which are extremely strong. It's the cheap foam adhesive discs that are too weak, and there's an easy fix for that. 

The Best Easy to Read, Loud Alarm, Multi-Event Digital Timer (Three Event Countdown Timers)

OXO Good Grips Triple Kitchen Timer

Although I still haven't found a three-event digital timer that I like as well as my old OXO Good Grips Triple Kitchen Timer, if I still needed one I would definitely go with the current version, which has gone through multiple revisions and iterations since the one I owned and loved. 

The current generation OXO Good Grips Triple Kitchen Timer was rated Highly Recommended as the best multi-event digital timer in the June 2021 Cook's Illustrated Kitchen Timers Equipment Review (subscription required). 

The OXO Good Grips Triple Kitchen Timer has a full numeric keypad and three dedicated event timer buttons.

Why You'll Love It:

• Accurate. For us, that's a baseline requirement.
• Upward angle and sturdy base. Designed for one-handed setting and countertop stability. 
• Large screen with inverse backlit digital display. Easy to read at a glance, even in low light.
• Adjustable volume. Three different loudness levels to suit your preference. 
• Each event timer can be set for up to 99 hours, 59 minutes and 59 seconds. I'm not sure why someone would need a 100-hour maximum time limit unless they were an NBC producer timing one of Al Roker's multi-day Rokerthons, but it's nice to have the option available.  
• Easily identifiable event alarms. Just like my old OXO Good Grips Triple Kitchen Timer, the current model also has three distinct beeping patterns, so you can tell which event alarm is going off just by the sound, even if you are in a different room. 
• Numeric keypad lets you set the clock and event timers faster. It also uses a numeric keypad instead of the more common -/+ buttons to set the countdown timers and clock. According to the June 2021 Cook's Illustrated Kitchen Timers Equipment Review, it took the America's Test Kitchen product testers, on average, less than half the time to set the timers on models that had full keypads than on models that did not.
• Convenient memory function. All three event timer remember their last settings until you clear them from memory.

Other Considerations:

• More buttons to press. The numeric keypad means you need to press more buttons to set the timers or clock (versus just two -/+ buttons to increase or decrease the time).
• Smaller digits. Fitting three event timer displays on a smaller LCD screen than that of the ThermoPro TM02 Dual Event Kitchen Timer means "the digits on the screen are slightly smaller than ideal," as the America's Test Kitchen reviewers wrote.
• Backlit screen display goes blank (“standby mode”) after 60 seconds. A frustrated Amazon reviewer who loved nearly everything else about this OXO Good Grips Triple Kitchen Timer called this issue a deal-breaker.

The Best Loud, Easy to Read Multi-Event Digital Timers product review by Margaret Schindel

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