Buying guide for shopping guide for best wall clocks
Are you looking for a new wall clock? The numerous options can make your head spin if you don’t know what you’re looking for. Wall clocks are no longer mere functional timepieces; many are decorative accents that you can use to express your personal style.
In addition to aesthetic value, a wall clock must also meet some practical standards of convenience and quality. You want to be assured that you’re getting the most for your money — something that is both reliable and durable. When making your choice, you also need to answer some questions about personal preference. Do you want an analog or digital clock? Would you like one with a nightlight or weather gauge? What about a chime?
Because of the wide array of wall clocks available, sifting through them all can be more than a little daunting. We put together this shopping guide to help you make the right choice for your home or office.
Key considerations
Form and function both matter when choosing a wall clock. The choices today come in almost every shape, size, and color … and whether the look of the clock is important to you or not, you will still need to choose a style.
In terms of function, you will want to determine what matters most to you. Some people only care that their clock can be seen from the farthest corner of the room. Others want their wall clock to have additional features, such as volume control and weather-proofing. To make your best choice, take the time to consider which of the following factors are most important to you.
Outdoor vs. indoor
A number of reputable wall clock manufacturers now make outdoor clocks, which are designed to be weatherproof and rust-proof. They often have a clear plastic covering over the face of the clock to protect it from the elements. If you see an outdoor clock you like, it’s perfectly acceptable to use it indoors. However, it’s not advisable to use an indoor clock outside, as it would inevitably be exposed to damaging outdoor elements.
Analog vs. digital
The majority of wall clocks have an analog design, but some people like the convenience of a digital clock on the wall, perhaps because they find it easier to read. Consider who will be using the clock most when choosing between analog and digital styles. For example, if small children who haven’t yet mastered the art of time-telling will be looking at it, you may want to opt for a digital wall clock.
Clock style
Wall clocks come in a variety of styles. The standard style is the plain black and white circular clock, but there are, of course, many more styles to choose from. Perhaps you’d like a schoolhouse-style clock that is enclosed in a wood and glass frame with a swinging pendulum. (These are also often called regulator clocks.) Perhaps you’d like an ornate clock with decorative ironwork around the face. The choice is yours, so think about the style of the room where the clock will go before making your purchase.
Chime vs. no chime
Some wall clocks emit the same chime sounds as grandfather clocks. The chimes usually sound on the hour and half hour to let you know the time. Are you a person who likes to hear these audible time reminders on a regular basis? If so, look for a clock with a chime. If not, be sure the wall clock you purchase has a silent option.
Expert Tip
Keep in mind that chime clocks make sound all through the night. This may warrant an installation far from the bedroom area of your home.
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Features
Weather gauge
Some wall clocks have temperature and humidity gauges built into the clock face. This feature is designed for weather bugs who always want to know the details about their environment. The gauge also adds visual weight to a wall clock that might otherwise look a bit sparse.
Volume control
Some chime wall clocks have a volume control that allows you to adjust the loudness of the chime. This is a good feature for people who like to have a chime but also want the option to turn it down or even off.
Night-light function
If you want a wall clock that shines a little light in the dark, opt for one with a night-light function. This feature will back-light your wall clock once the sun goes down. It’s especially useful for anyone who would like a little light while maneuvering through the dark.
Inset digital screen
Analog wall clocks can have some limitations in terms of the information they deliver, but some have an inset digital screen that fills that gap. The screen may display a digital version of the time along with other information such as the temperature, day of the week, and date. This is a great compromise for households that may be split over the analog/digital debate, as it offers the best of both worlds.
Expert Tip
If you want a wall clock that offers a little fun and personality, consider a vintage European-style cuckoo clock. Kids and adults love them.
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Wall clock prices
Inexpensive: Between $5 and $30, you can find almost any style and size of clock you might need. These clocks are the standard used by most people in homes and offices. For a little more, however, you can get something with more panache.
Mid-range: From $30 to $65 is the mid-range category of wall clocks. These clocks may have a few extras like barometers or thermometers. Some mid-range options are also digital wall clocks.
Expensive: Many of the options available between $65 and $100 are top timekeepers when it comes to wall clocks. A lot of clocks in this price range are handmade of metal materials with a specific aesthetic in mind.
You could spend a lot more than $100 on a wall clock. In fact, during our research, we found clocks that cost greater than $1,000. The average homeowner probably wouldn’t want to spend that much, but there is a market for this type of clock nonetheless.
Expert Tip
Measure the area where you plan to put your wall clock before purchasing. Failure to do so could lead to a clock that doesn’t fit your space.
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Tips
- Place your wall clock in a spot where it is visible from the entire room. If it’s obscured by a potted plant or something else, it won’t be much use for anyone.
- Follow instructions in detail when setting the time on a regulator clock. Failing to do so could cause damage to the mechanism.
- Check the batteries in your wall clock regularly. If you forget to do so, your time will be off more often than you’ll care to deal with.
- Always take your wall clock down to change the time or the batteries. Trying to do these tasks on a chair or ladder can be very dangerous.
Other products we considered
The Power 16-Inch Wall Clock offers everything most people would need in a clock. It’s big enough to be seen, and it has an LCD display that shows the time, date, and temperature.
We are also impressed by the Howard Miller 620-220 Lambourn I Wall Clock. Beautiful cherry wood finish and the option to play full Westminster chimes makes this a charming option, albeit a pricey one. If you like Howard Miller clocks and don’t mind spending even more, consider the Howard Miller 612-221 Jennison Wall Clock. Its vintage mahogany finish is so beautiful, this clock is fit for royalty.
FAQ
Q. Can I purchase a wall clock that plugs into an electrical outlet?
A. Yes. Some wall clocks have an optional electrical outlet plug. If this is something you seek, though, you’ll need to search for this specific feature.
Q. Do I have to wind my wall clock like a watch?
A. Probably not. Although some vintage-style wall clocks operate on a key wind system, most are powered by batteries that keep the clock running.
Q. How often will I need to change my clock batteries?
A. It depends. There are a number of variables that determine this, including type and quantity of batteries used and the size of your clock. You should go by the general rule of checking your clock’s batteries every few months.
