small quartz travel clock

The 10 Best Travel Alarm Clocks of 2024

Wake up and enjoy your trip

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Being on vacation should be relaxing, but we all know that prepping for a trip can be stressful. A reliable travel alarm clock removes one of the biggest worries—missing your flight—and gives you the freedom to switch off your phone and still get up on time for tours and transfers throughout your trip. Travel alarm clocks vary considerably in features and looks, ranging from basic folding clocks to digital smart clocks and quirky analog ones with a vintage aesthetic.

Standard features to look out for include lightness, reliability, and the option to run off a battery (making them ready for action wherever your adventures take you).

Final Verdict

• What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, travelwey digital travel alarm clock.

Protective cover

On/off switch neutralizes buttons in transit

One-year free replacement guarantee

Limited features

Batteries not included

If you like simplicity, you’ll love Travelwey’s digital travel alarm clock. Revised to accommodate user requests for a no-frills product that prioritizes functionality and ease of use, the clock lacks many of the extra features of others on this list. It doesn’t have a temperature gauge, date function, or radio integration, but it does keep time beautifully, with a large display and an effective snooze alarm. 

It’s one of the most affordable and best-reviewed travel alarm clocks out there, with several clever design elements, including forward-facing buttons, an on-demand light that illuminates the screen for five seconds, and a folding cover that doubles as a handy stand. For many, one of the best features is the on/off button, which prevents other buttons from being pressed in transit but maintains time for when it’s switched back on. Choose yours in black or white. 

Dimensions: 2.7 x 3.1 x 0.8 inches | Weight: 3 ounces | Power Source: Two AA batteries | Display Style: Digital

Best Budget

Sharp digital alarm clock.

A low price point

Ascending alarm for gentler waking

Backlight with auto-off

Very basic features

No protective cover for display

Another travel alarm clock that functions as a simple, easy-to-use timekeeper and alarm (and not much more), this offering from Sharp is one of the most cost-effective options on the market. It receives excellent user reviews, with satisfied customers praising its compact size and large, clearly legible LCD display. The clock’s tactile soft rubber case is a unique selling point, providing durability and style in one attractive package. 

The alarm increases in volume as time passes, giving you the chance to wake up gently and switch it off before it becomes aggressively loud. You can do so using the large, easily accessible buttons on top of the clock. The snooze button doubles as an on-demand backlight, illuminating the display with blue light for five seconds whenever you wish to read the time in the middle of the night. The fact that the light is not on permanently helps to save battery life.

Dimensions: 4 x 1.7 x 2.3 inches | Weight: 3.2 ounces | Power Source: Two AAA batteries | Display Style: Digital

Best for Heavy Sleepers

Screaming meanie 220 alarm clock and timer.

Tested for toughness

Three volume options

Pocket-sized design

Requires setting the alarm every day

Your fellow travelers may hate you

The Screaming Meanie 220 alarm clock is the answer for those who have hearing deficiencies or routinely sleep hard. There are three loudness settings to choose from—70, 90, or 120 decibels. The highest is equivalent to a chainsaw at close range and is guaranteed to cut through even the loudest ambient noise. There’s no chance of turning it off in your sleep and rolling over again, either—you need two hands to disable it. 

You can set an alarm time or use the countdown timer to set a specific number of hours and minutes until you need to get up. There’s even a clip on the back of the clock for attaching it to your backpack while in transit. Designed to fit in a pocket and subjected to a 30-foot drop test, the Screaming Meanie provides ultimate compactness and durability. It comes with clear instructions, in black, green, or blue.

Dimensions: 6 x 2.5 x 1 inches | Weight: 5.9 ounces | Power Source: One 9-volt battery | Display Style: Digital

Best with Temperature Gauge

Peakeep smart night light digital alarm clock.

Easy to operate

Choose between standard or military time

Available in five attractive colors

Not as light as some other options on this list

This travel alarm clock from Peakeep comes with an indoor temperature gauge—handy for knowing whether to open a window or adjust the AC before climbing into bed. It’s compatible with a temperature range of 15.8 to 122 degrees F and can display information in Celsius, too. Similarly, you can choose to read the time using the 12- or 24-hour clock—either way, the HD LCD display is easy to see from across the room. 

At night, a built-in ambient light sensor switches the backlight on automatically. You can adjust the brightness or turn it off entirely if you prefer to sleep in absolute darkness. When the alarm goes off, it emits a series of beeps that increase in frequency for 90 seconds. Hit the snooze button on top of the hard plastic frame for another eight minutes of sleep. The clock comes in five colors, including stylish shades of pastel blue, mint, and pink. 

Dimensions: 5.25 x 2 x 3 inches | Weight: 6.7 ounces | Power Source: Three AAA batteries  | Display Style: Digital

Best Analog

Marathon mini non-ticking analog alarm clock.

Established brand

Quiet time keeping

Smart backlight

Backlight can't be dimmed

Heavier than other clocks on this list

Analog fans will love the tried-and-tested reliability of this miniature-sized alarm from the respected clockmaker Marathon. It features a classic aesthetic, accurate quartz movement, and a continuously sweeping second hand designed to be entirely silent—a godsend for those who hate being kept awake by the incessant ticking of many traditional clocks. The alarm is easy to set, with on/off and snooze buttons conveniently placed on top of the hard plastic frame.

This alarm clock features an ambient light sensor and automatically emits a soft glow when placed in a dark room, making the display easy to read at all hours; however, the brightness of the backlight cannot be adjusted, only switched off. Choose from various color options, including a blue case with a white dial, a white case with a white dial, or a black case with a black or white dial. Batteries come with all models.  

Dimensions: 2.7 x 2.7 x 1.9 inches | Weight: 9.1 ounces | Power Source: Two AA batteries | Display Style: Analog

iLuv Smart Shaker 3

Lots of customizable options

Long lasting

Only offers silent alarm

Doesn't display the time

The disc-shaped iLuv Smart Shaker 3 represents the newest generation of travel alarm clocks. It pairs with your smartphone via an easy-to-use app to schedule multiple alarms for different times and days at the press of a button. LED indicators on the shaker notify you of its battery life and any incoming calls, messages, or social media events on your phone. And, since it stores all settings internally, it works even when your phone is off. 

Unlike the other alarms on this list, this is not an audio alarm. Instead, the disc wakes you by vibrating underneath your pillow. You can choose one of five vibration strengths, depending on how deeply you sleep, and wake up without disturbing your sleeping partner. The alarm clock comes with a USB charging cable that requires mains power; however, it claims to last 14 days on a single charge. 

Dimensions: 1.7 x 5.3 x 6.9 inches | Weight: 9.9 ounces | Power Source: Mains | Display Style: N/A

Best Radio Alarm

Bejamy fm radio alarm clock.

Large snooze button on top of clock

Adjustable brightness

Power cable is short

For some of us, loud beeping is the worst thing to wake up to in the morning. Enter radio alarm clocks. Start the day right with music or your favorite radio DJ. This model from Bejamy has a radio auto search to quickly scan through FM stations and a telescoping antenna for better signal and portability. It's compact and lightweight—great for travel or placing around the house wherever you need it.

A large LED face is easy to read and there's an option for red or blue numbers. Below the display are several buttons to set alarms and choose between a 12- or 24-hour reading. This radio is powered via batteries or a DC power adapter and has a USB input for charging other devices. And don't worry about waking up for an important flight or meeting; you can also choose a "wake up to buzzer" alarm.

Dimensions: 4.7 x 1.5 x 3.8 inches | Weight: 10 ounces | Power Source: Three AAA battery | Display Style: Digital

Best Pocket-Sized

Peakeep battery travel alarm clock with snooze and light.

Small, palm-sized clock

Progressive and effective alarm

Difficult to read from across the room

Can only be set 12 hours in advance

Probably the tiniest travel alarm clock on the market, this pocket-sized offering from PEAKEEP measures just 2.25 x 2.25 x 1.25 inches and weighs only two ounces—perfect for those who like to travel light. It features a quartz-movement analog display with a silent-sweeping second hand for a quiet night’s sleep. Need to read the time? Press the manual backlight button on the front of the clock to illuminate the dial. 

The ascending alarm features a series of beeps that get faster and louder in four stages until you hit the snooze button or tap the large on/off switch. The latter rests on top of the clock for easy access. This battery-powered and stylish little clock comes in three colors—black, white, and aquamarine. Easy to find wherever your travels take you, the battery should last for over six months.

Dimensions: 2.25 x 2.25 x 1.25 inches | Weight: 2 ounces | Power Source: One AA battery | Display Style: Analog

Best Atomic

Sharper image atomic travel alarm clock.

Options for customization

Optional auto nightlight

Easy-to-read acrylic face

Relatively expensive

The atomic clock only works in the U.S.

This Sharper Image travel alarm clock uses common radio waves to sync with the U.S. Atomic Clock and is ideal for business travelers who frequently move about the country. Select one of four time zones (Eastern, Central, Mountain, or Pacific), and rest assured that the time will always be 100% updated and accurate. The clock even switches automatically to Daylight Savings Time. The clock can be set manually when you travel outside these four time zones. 

Its clear display shows the time (in 12- or 24-hour format), date, day of the week, indoor temperature (in Celsius or Fahrenheit), and alarm status. The backlight comes on automatically when it gets dark; you can disable this function and simply press the snooze button to activate the light on demand. The alarm beeps for 60 seconds, while the snooze function triggers a crescendo alarm that sounds five times at five-minute intervals. 

Dimensions: 3.25 x 3.75 x 1.5 inches | Weight: 3.2 ounces | Power Source: Two AA batteries | Display Style: Digital

Pilife Mini Vintage Alarm Clock

Retro design in a wide choice of colors

Manual backlight

Non-ticking

Challenging to set alarm for precise times

Can't be snoozed

Pilife’s stainless steel mini alarm clock adds a touch of retro glamor to your hotel room, hostel, or vacation rental. Inspired by vintage bedside clocks, it features a circular analog display with 3D numbers, little chrome feet, and a pair of top-mounted alarm bells. You can also choose from various on-trend colors, including pastel blue, pink, purple, and mint or keep it classic with black or white. 

In addition to looking the part, the clock is ideally sized for travel at just three inches in diameter. It features accurate quartz movement, a silent-sweeping second hand, and a backlight that can be activated at the press of a button. The alarm sound itself is extra-loud and therefore ideal for heavy sleepers. However, there’s no snooze button—which could be a pro or a con, depending on your perspective. 

Dimensions: 3.3 x 1.5 x 4.7 inches | Weight: 8.8 ounces | Power Source: One AA battery | Display Style: Analog

For a travel alarm clock with all the bells and whistles, we like the Sharper Image Atomic Travel Alarm Clock . But for those who want to keep it simple, the affordable and reliable Travelwey Digital Travel Alarm Clock is our top pick.

What to Look For in Travel Alarm Clocks

Portability.

By definition, portability is the top priority for a travel alarm clock. It should fit easily into your carry-on luggage , purse, or backpack pocket, and it should not add much weight. The most portable travel alarm clocks are usually those that fold flat; however, miniature versions of regular alarm clocks can be just as convenient.

Just how portable you need your alarm clock to be depends on the type of traveling you do. A backpacker on a round-the-world adventure, for example, is likely to need something much lighter than a business traveler on an overnight road trip.

Travel alarm clocks come with a wide variety of features, from radios and temperature gauges to the ability to integrate with your smartphone for Bluetooth notifications. If you’re a heavy sleeper, an extra-loud alarm bell might be the game changer you need; if you have a partner who doesn’t like to wake up when you do, a vibrating alarm could be helpful. Those who travel primarily within the U.S. may appreciate the superior accuracy of an atomic clock, while others may prefer the pared-back simplicity of an alarm clock with a backlight, a snooze button, and not much more.

There is a travel alarm clock for every budget, with options on this list alone ranging in price from just over $10 to almost eight times that much. All of them fulfill the most basic function, i.e., to wake you up on time for your sightseeing tour, meeting, or flight departure . How much you choose to spend after that depends on the extra features you want and how vital particular aesthetics or brand names are to you. Often, checking past customer reviews is a more reliable way of guaranteeing a good product than simply paying for the most expensive version. A quality travel alarm clock can easily cost under $20.

Although there’s nothing to stop you from traveling with a regular alarm clock or using your travel alarm clock back home, the main difference between the two is size. Travel alarm clocks are typically designed with portability and lightness in mind and are either compact or foldable or both.

The best travel alarm clocks are also extra-durable and battery-powered (circumventing any issues with different socket types or voltages at your destination).

Mains-powered alarm clocks are fine if you mainly travel domestically—but if you often go abroad, a battery-powered option is the better choice. That way, you don’t have to worry about packing an adapter or converter to enable compatibility with foreign plug sockets and voltages. If you find yourself without access to a plug point (in an airport terminal, for example, or on a camping adventure), your trusty alarm clock will still be able to wake you up on schedule.

You can, of course. But many seasoned travelers prefer the reliability of a battery-powered travel alarm clock that will work even when your phone has died (because you forgot to bring an adaptor, perhaps, or because you simply don’t have access to electricity while in transit). Some like to use an alarm clock as a backup for their phone ahead of that all-important flight, while others use one so that they can switch off their phone and truly relax while on vacation.

Jessica Macdonald is a seasoned traveler, having visited more than 50 countries across six continents, often with the help of a travel alarm clock. For this article, she researched more than 20 of the best products currently on the market, comparing them for price, features, and user reviews. To be considered, alarm clocks had to be battery-powered (or at least have battery backup). Size and weight were carefully considered, and preference was given to those marketed explicitly as “travel” or “compact” versions.

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The 10 Best Travel Alarm Clocks [2023]

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

763 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

29 Published Articles 3075 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 45 U.S. States Visited: 28

Things To Consider with Travel Alarm Clocks

1. a simple alarm clock to get the job done, 2. gives you all the info you need, 3. a clock that fits anywhere, 4. an analog clock for light sleepers, 5. a stress-free autoset option, 6. sleek and stylish travel clock, 7. perfect option for night owls, 8. a compact and budget-friendly clock, 9. durable and user-friendly option, 10. an alarm clock that won’t startle you, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

It can be easy to fall out of your routine when you’re away from home. However, whether you’re traveling for fun or for business, making sure you wake up in a timely fashion is essential.

Packing a travel alarm clock on your trips can help ensure you always know what time it is. That way, you can stay on schedule without worrying about a dead phone battery or incorrectly synced time.

A travel alarm clock should be easy to use and guarantee that you’ll be able to wake up at your desired time. However, there are some different factors you should consider if you plan to purchase a travel alarm clock.

Volume and Alarm

The type of alarm a clock has is the first thing you should consider before you purchase one.

A heavy sleeper will want an alarm clock with loud or adjustable volume. A light sleeper, instead, should ensure their clock doesn’t emit a ticking sound that could disturb their rest.

Some alarm clocks have different sound settings regarding the type of alarm you can choose. For example, if a loud beeping might startle you, you’ll likely want to look for an option that uses a different noise.

Size and Weight

The size and weight of an alarm clock can affect how easy it is to travel with. If you tend to pack light or try to reduce the weight in your bag or backpack, you’ll want to find a compact clock that won’t take up much room.

However, lighter and smaller clocks often have fewer features which is another thing to consider. Larger clocks may have a screen that’s easier to see, but they’ll add extra weight or may take up more room in your luggage.

The material a clock is made out of might also be something you should consider before you purchase one. Many travel clocks are made out of plastic, however, the thickness and feel can differ between them.

If you have tactile issues, you might also want to look at clock options to suit your specific needs. For example, a rubberized clock might be easier to grip.

Bottom Line: You should also look at the difference in materials between any buttons and the rest of the clock if that might affect how you use it.

Power Source

The power source an alarm clock needs to work is another important thing you should consider, particularly depending on the type of travel you usually do.

Most travel alarm clocks are battery-powered. This is a universal option for all types of travel, however, it does mean you have to purchase new batteries.

Alarm clocks that are rechargeable are another viable option, as are clocks that use electricity. These options, however, might not work for international travel or if access to a suitable power source isn’t guaranteed (for example, camping trips).

While an alarm clock that stays in one place typically doesn’t have to withstand much wear and tear, the same can’t be said for travel clocks.

You’ll want to make sure your travel clock is made in a way that it won’t crack or chip easily. If you plan to take your clock camping, you might also want to look at water-resistant and dust-resistant options.

You’ll want to make sure your travel clock can withstand being banged around in transit without risking short circuits or malfunctions when you use it.

The 10 Best Travel Alarm Clocks

Travel alarm clocks aren’t all made the same, and it can be hard to decide which one will best fit the type of traveler you are.

To help you figure out what you should look for, we’ve compiled this list of the best travel alarm clocks on the market, including the pros and cons you should consider.

Travelwey Digital Travel Alarm Clock

If what you’re looking for in a travel alarm clock is simplicity, the Travelwey is for you. This clock was designed for people who never use the other features that more advanced models offer.

Though the clock comes with a user manual, it’s intuitive to use , so even if you lose the instructions, you shouldn’t have trouble setting the alarm.

Thanks to its small size and how lightweight it is, the clock can fit in most backpacks, carry-on bags, or checked luggage, so it’s suitable for any travel.

It also only needs 2 AAA batteries, so it’s also extremely low-maintenance. Due to its simple screen display, the batteries don’t have to be changed often.

What We Like:

• It’s easy to use

What We Don’t Like:

• The alarm volume isn’t adjustable

MARATHON Travel Alarm Clock

If you’re someone who wants to make sure they’re prepared for the day from the moment they wake up, this Marathon model is a great travel clock for you.

This clock not only gives you the time but also displays the metric and imperial temperature , ensuring you know how to dress for the day.

The clock also comes with a calendar setting that shows the date, month, and day of the week, so you can keep on top of your schedule. This is particularly useful for people who travel a lot and can get confused or disoriented when they move between different time zones.

• It can display temperatures in both Celsius and Fahrenheit
• The small screen can be cluttered with information

KWANWA Alarm Clock

The KWANWA alarm clock is perfect for people who want an option that can fit anywhere. Unlike a lot of travel clocks, this model doesn’t look particularly different from a standard digital alarm you’d find on anyone’s side table.

The numbers are displayed with red LED lights, which aren’t too harsh on the eyes in dim lighting. However, you can also adjust the brightness to suit your personal preferences, so even people with light sensitivities won’t suffer any eye strain.

The clock is easy to figure out and fairly intuitive, allowing you to choose the snooze setting and whether you prefer a 12- or 24-hour clock display.

• It can be used at home or while traveling
• It can be difficult to hang if that’s preferred

Marathon CL030053BL Classic Silent Sweep Alarm Clock

Analog clocks are preferred by some, but they can make rest difficult for light sleepers. The Marathon Classic doesn’t have that problem.

This travel clock was designed to be as unobtrusive as possible. There’s no constant ticking sound as time goes by, so you don’t have to worry about any noise from your clock until it’s time for the alarm to go off.

This model also takes care of the analog problem of telling time in the dark. It has a built-in auto-glow that will allow you to easily read the time, even in the middle of the night.

The clock is also compact and fashionably vintage-looking, making it a fun decor piece you can take with you.

• Whisper quiet
• Less budget-friendly

SHARP Digital Alarm with AccuSet

Sharp’s AccuSet alarm is perfect for people who don’t want to constantly worry if they set their clock right.

Traveling can be stressful if it involves changing time zones. If your electronics don’t automatically adjust, it can be a hassle figuring out what time to set your clock to. Having an alarm clock that automatically sets itself to the correct time can be a huge convenience.

This alarm has the added bonus of being equipped with 2 power sources . It can run electrically, which is great if you’re traveling within an area that uses the same power outlets. However, it can also run on battery power, making it perfect for international travel.

• It adjusts automatically to the timezone
• Display can glitch

Betus Digital Travel Alarm Clock

If a lack of style is a potential deal-breaker for you, then you don’t have to worry about the Betus travel clock.

It might be a compact alarm that has a stand that doubles as a travel cover, but it’s still been designed to be sleek and fashionable. It’s smooth and comes in silver or black, so it will fit any decor seamlessly.

Despite its size, the clock also has a surprisingly large display for the time, date, and temperature . With a quick glance, you can find out most things you need to know about your day. It comes with a battery already installed, so you can start using it right away.

• It has a 1-year warranty
• Runs on less-common batteries

MARATHON Atomic Travel Alarm Clock

Marathon’s Atomic alarm clock model is made with night owls in mind. Its display automatically switches to a “night mode” setting during the night hours, so it won’t cause eye strain. However, if you prefer to decide when the light turns on or off, you can also set it manually.

The clock is also designed to automatically adjust if it’s within a 6-timezone span in North America.

Though European times would have to be manually set, you can adjust the clock’s language to 4 other options other than English , so it’s still a perfect choice for users around the world. The ideal travel perk of this clock, however, is that it weighs less than half a pound.

• Atomic setting
• Not as sturdy as other options

MARATHON Foldable Compact Travel Alarm Clock

A lot of travel clocks can be costly, and sometimes you just want something that gives you the information you need at a budget-friendly price.

Marathon’s foldable clock is a sturdy option that should last years. It’s easy to use with clearly labeled buttons and switches that are intuitive to follow.

The clock is less than 3 by 8 inches in size, making it small and portable . However, the display is still large enough to clearly see the time.

Though the clock is battery-powered, it doesn’t take much power to use — many people have claimed they’ve gone years before the battery needs to be changed. When the batteries do have to be changed, only 2 AAAs are needed.

• It’s simple to operate
• Light is only button-operated

SHARP Digital Alarm Clock

The Sharp digital alarm is a good option for you if you want an alarm clock that should stand up to a little rough-housing.

Unlike many options on the market, this model has a rubberized finish which helps protect it from cracking or breaking if knocked over or bumped around in a suitcase.

The rubber feel also makes the alarm easy to grip and use, making it a good choice for people who have mobility issues or who worry about accidentally dropping it.

The alarm is also a “crescendo” sound that gradually gets louder, which should protect against you being startled upon waking up, making for a more pleasant experience.

• Easy to feel for the buttons in the dark
• Blue light can be irritating

Braun Classic Analog Alarm Clock

If you hate the loud racket that comes with most alarm clocks, this Braun model might be the right choice for you.

Rather than a startling alarm, it wakes you up with a beeping sound that gets more frequent as more time passes without a reaction.

Though it’s an analog clock, you don’t have to worry about being kept awake or annoyed by ticking sounds. It’s been specifically designed to be quiet enough not to bother you or anyone else nearby.

When in low-lighting, you can also set the clock to have a back-lit glow, so you’ll always be able to tell the time.

• Perfect for any occasion and location
• Only has a 5-minute snooze interval

A travel alarm clock should help ensure you wake up at your desired time while on a trip. However, the specific characteristics that make your perfect alarm clock will vary depending on your needs.

You may want an alarm clock that also tells you the current temperature, or you might need a sturdy clock you can throw in your bag without worry.

Hopefully, our list has helped you narrow down your choices, so you can pick the right clock for your travels.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a travel clock.

A travel clock isn’t fundamentally different from a traditional alarm clock. Typically, they’re compact enough to easily fit into a suitcase. They’re often simple in design and tend to be battery-powered. That way, they can be used internationally or on trips where you may not have access to electricity.

Are travel alarm clocks worth it?

Travel alarm clocks can be worth it, depending on your travel needs. If you intend to use your phone often, thus causing the battery to drain, having a separate clock can help ensure you don’t miss an alarm.

What makes a good travel clock?

A good travel clock should be small and lightweight enough to not be cumbersome to travel with. It should also be durable enough to withstand being moved around and jostled. A good travel clock should also be easy to use and have an alarm that will actually wake you up.

Should I use a travel alarm clock?

You should use a travel alarm clock if you have to or want to stick to a strict time schedule while you’re away from home. However, if you’re traveling in a group, it’s best to ensure that everyone with you agrees to having an alarm set to avoid unnecessary conflicts.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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Patek Philippe

• David Duggan Watches /
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A Guide to: the World Time Complication

As the name suggests, a World Time watch allows the wearer to read the time in the world’s 24 major time zones. But what else do we know about this incredible watch complication?

As the name suggests, a World Time watch allows the wearer to read the time in the world’s 24 major time zones.

Who invented it?

It was invented by independent watchmaker Louis Cottier in 1931.

How does the World Time complication work?

The watch’s hour and minute hand are coordinated with an outer chapter ring displaying the names of 24 reference cities for each time zone. A pusher, or button, on the case enables the wearer to move the chapter ring one city at a time. The hour hand automatically jumps an hour ahead or behind to the time in the reference city (in other words, your local time). A rotating 24-hour inner chapter ring turns once a day, showing the time in the other cities on the dial.

To tell the time in another city, line up the watch’s hour hand with the reference city that corresponds with your local time using the rotating bezel. For example, if you are in London and it is 11pm, align ‘London’ with 11 on your watch face. To find out what the time is in Moscow, swap to the 24-hour dial and read the time that aligns with Moscow, which would be 1am. At the same time, you can tell the time in all the other cities. The time difference between local time and all other cities is measured in hours only, since the minutes stay the same.

Cottier’s mechanism for reading multiple time zones was not successful, but it would inspire his son, Louis – a double Patek Philippe prize winner before he’d even completed his apprenticeship – to develop his ‘heures universelles’ in 1931. The complication featured the local time with hour and minute hands at the centre and a rotating 24-hour ring bordered by the names of different cities or places. It was originally designed for pocket watches, but, in 1937, with these timepieces becoming less popular, Patek Philippe commissioned Cottier to produce the first World Time wristwatch. He would go on to supply them to many other prestige brands, including Rolex and Vacheron Constantin .

Cottier’s mechanism is still used today as the base for most World Time watches, though they have become more elaborate in design over the years. Patek Philippe is particularly known for its extraordinarily beautiful cloisonné enamel maps and dials that feature mythical creatures and symbols.

A World Time watch can tell you a lot about the geopolitics of the time in which it was made thanks to the choice of major cities displayed around the dial. The most recent change came at Baselworld 2016, when Patek Philippe unveiled its new ref. 5230 with a World Timer to reflect a number of shifts, including the fact that Dubai has replaced Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as the internationally-recognised representative city of its time zone.

Famous fans

These highly-attractive timepieces are celebrated by collectors and enthusiasts as much for their elegant design as their instant access to multiple time zones. It’s no surprise, then, that tennis ace and frequent flier Novak Djokovic is a fan of the World Time watch. American comedian Kevin Hart, meanwhile, has been spotted wearing Patek Philippe’s World Time ref. 5230R-001 in stunning rose gold.

A slight problem

In a world of smartphones and instant information, one may think a complex, and expensive, watch complication has had its day. But, with it beauty and easily readable mechanism, the World Time watch remains just as relevant as it ever was. The only slight problem is that there are now more than 24 time zones (37 in total) and not all of them are a full hour apart  ̶  for example, India is GMT+5.5 hours, so it can have its drawbacks. Some brands, such as Vacheron Constantin, have tried to improve on the original design by implementing all possible time zones, so if you are a regular traveller to India, there is a solution.

One other thing to be aware of is daylight savings time cannot be calculated using a World Time watch bezel so the wearer will have to take this into account.

Some of our favourites

To honour the originators of the World Time, here are a few of our Patek Philippe favourites:

Patek Philippe World Time ref. 5930G – by combining the calibers found in the 5990 and 5130 movements, Patek Philippe created the world’s smallest and thinnest world-timer-chronograph on the market. Launched in 2016, its ‘winglet’ style lugs will please any vintage collector, but the electric blue dial, as well as innovations such as the flyback chronograph, brings the model nicely into the modern age.

Patek Philippe World Time ref. 5575G – this 1,300-piece limited edition model was released to celebrate Patek Philippe’s 175 th anniversary in 2014 with World Time and moonphase complications. This is the first time Patek Philippe combined the World Time and moonphase function, dubbed the ‘World Time Moon’. The dial is made up of two peripheral rotating scales, the outer denoting the respective city, while the inner scale denotes the 24 time zones.

Patek Philippe World Time ref. 5230 – released to accommodate new time zone designations (for example, Moscow shifting one hour closer to Western Europe) this model is currently available in white or rose gold. A smart, modern timepiece with a simple, smooth case and beautiful guilloche dial that still manages to pack a lot of information in – 24 time zones to be exact.

DAVID DUGGAN WATCHES ARE MEMBERS OF THE BRITISH HOROLOGICAL INSTITUE LTD, NAWCC AND LAPADA