Westclox Big Ben Classic Battery Operated Alarm Clock with Lumnious Hands

I have read many reviews of this clock from "Love It!" to "Hate It!" so, I figured I would try to do an honest review of this clock based on my experience with it. First off, I had one of these original Big Ben clocks growing up, and I loved it. I saw this one, and had to have it. Now, this one is made in China, not the USA, so no it is not an "Authentic" brass geared clock from the 60's. The cabinet back is plastic, and the trim is brass colored metal. It does not tick as loudly as I remember the older one did either. That being said, it is a handsome clock that works well enough to earn a place on the shelf in my home office. When I first received it, it gained about 5 minutes every 8 hours or so. After a couple of days of getting it regulated, it keeps really good time, so be patient and let it settle in and it should be fine. For the record I should note that I have a couple of vintage wind up clocks that I have to adjust the time on every once in awhile due to temp and humidity changes, so Any mechanical clock needs to be adjusted from time to time. Being realistic, I do not expect a $15 clock with plastic gears to run for 30 years. But with gentle care, I can see it lasting for a couple of years anyway. I can honestly say that this is a really decent clock, and if you take the time to read the instructions on how to regulate it, it will keep decent time.

I purchased this Big Ben as a replacement for my smaller Baby Ben once it stopped working. And given that it survived a house fire; and continued on for several more years, I'd say they are of good quality.I have always used Westclox; because I prefer Keywound Alarm Clocks, and I knew going into my purchase that the clocks are not made as they were 40 - 50 years ago, but neither was the one that survived the fire. It keeps perfect time; and the alarm is loud enough to wake even the soundest of sleepers.This version has a "Time Regulator" which can be used if your clock is running too fast or too slow. I have not had to use it, because as I said, it's keeping perfect time. The numerals and hands do not glow in the dark; I have somewhat limited sight; and they are large enough to be seen when using a night light.Overall I am thrilled w/ my purchase; and highly recommend it to anyone who simply wants a plain basic alarm clock.

I bought this clock becuase I love the retro looks of it, not because I wanted an alarm clock. I have an alarm clock already that I use. The clock came with clear instructions, including directions to wind the hands counter clockwise. I have bought several clocks that have to be would this way, so that was no problem. The clock keeps very good time, and it is a beautiful addition to the other retro items I keep around it. The alarm, if you use it, has to be wound as well.I recommend this clock to anyone who wants to add a nostalgic look to their home, and have a functional clock as well. I have since bought the other big bend keywound alarm clock with the silver case and white dial.

I had a Baby Ben by Westclox when I was in school. I had it for many years before it finally died. I wish now that I'd attempted to have it fixed. This one is cheaply made with a plastic case rather than metal. The knobs for setting the time and alarm time require pliers to turn. Also unlike the old baby ben this one requires winding daily. My old one went several days without winding. Like others, I have also found it requires frequent adjusting to try to get it to keep accurate time. I wanted a wind up alarm as a backup for power out situations. I won't be buying Westclox items in the future. I require quality and they no longer provide that.10/15/11 - update, the clock no longer works.

I bought this clock, as many before me, for an elderly relative who wanted an alarm that can be hand-wound. Although it looks like its "old relative" the body of this clock is now made of plastic and the controls on the back are difficult to turn. However, it does keep good time if wound daily, the alarm is loud enough and it does LOOK like the old Big Ben. The price was also excellent so for under $20, including shipping, it was a good deal. I would suggest the Big Ben over a Baby Ben for an elderly person due to the minimal space on the back of the clock for finger control on the latter.

What can you say about the Big Ben Classic? Reliable as ever, and so retro to boot. I remember my parents having this clock in their bedroom, it woke my mother and father every morning. Back then you did have to wind your clocks, but I feel it was a short time well spent.. allowed for a reflection about the fleeting nature of it all. Loved this clock so much that us kids were given the Baby Bens.. a scaled down version but just as fabulous. Maybe with me it's just a nostalgia thing.. but I have always loved this clock. I bought this one as a gift, and I inherited my parent's.. still works like a dream for over 50 years! Buy it and it will last a lifetime.

Great little clock. Works perfectly. Prompt delivery. Very pleased all round.

Cheap, difficult to see, nothing like the original....