Westclox alarm clocks were originally produced by the United Clock company in Peru, Illinois in the late nineteenth century. īut this is not how the story of Westclox began. By the 1960s production went offshore to achieve economies of scale. This particular clock is made in China while other similar Westclox alarm clocks at the time were made in Taiwan. Back of alarm clock showing setting knobs These clocks were produced in the thousands and many can be bought on eBay for under $10. There are three patent numbers none of which tell me the exact year of manufacture. There is also a speed adjustment just above the centre knob. The centre knob is for adjusting the time and the upper left knob is for setting the alarm. Instead of two winding keys that are typically found on an older alarm clock, they are combined into one key, for the bell alarm and the time function. Collapsed, the clock fits anywhere Red lever is for activating the alarm It fits easily into a purse, messenger bag, overnight bag or suitcase.

It is in a light brown plastic case and folds into its case when transported. It is very compact, measuring 3 inches square by 1 1/2 inches deep when collapsed. It did not do a lot of traveling in its life since a well worn clock usually does not work well and these things were tossed in the garbage when they broke. I bought it at a local antique dealer for $6 and it is in very good condition. It is a Westclox travel alarm with a luminous dial. We have all grown used used to electronic alarms (cell phone or tablet) to wake us up at a specific time but my little bit of testing revealed that this little travel alarm clock works just fine though not quite as accurate. While on a vacation in the Dominican Republic we brought along an old Westclox wind-up mechanical travel alarm clock for no other reason but to have it as a curiosity and of course, to get us up in the morning.

Old brown alarm clock