14 best new atomic clocks
TAI is incredibly precise and does not rely on the Earth's rotation, making it a stable reference for time.
Advancements: Over time, there have been developments in atomic clock technology. For example, optical lattice clocks, which use lasers to trap and cool atoms, have shown promise in surpassing the accuracy of traditional cesium atomic clocks. These advancements could have implications for future technologies that rely on precise timekeeping.
In summary, new atomic clocks are sophisticated timekeeping devices that rely on the vibrations of atoms to provide unparalleled precision and accuracy in measuring time. They are not related to projection clocks, specialty clocks, or home decor but have critical applications in fields where precise timekeeping is essential, such as telecommunications, navigation, and scientific research.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best new atomic clocks on the market
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Marathon Atomic Travel Alarm Clock with Auto Back Light Feature, Calendar and Temperature. Folds into One Compact Unit for Travel - Batteries Included - CL030036WH (White)
Marathon
- SELF SETTING: Multifunction display is self-setting and self-adjusting
- MULTIPLE TIME ZONES: You can easily switch between 6 time zones (Pacific, Mountain, Central, Eastern, Atlantic & Newfoundland)
- MULTIPLE LANGUAGES: Choose from 5 languages (English, French, German, Italian & Spanish)
- AUTOMATIC BACKLIGHT: Uses a built in light sensor to detect if the clock has been placed in a dark environment, the backlight can also be manually operated; DISPLAY: Acrylic display is durable for cleaning
- COMPACT SIZE: Measuring in at 3.25" x 0.5" x 2.75", our atomic clock is great for travel
User questions & answers
| Question: | Many travel alarms fold into a clamshell to protect the clock face from scratching during travel. Does this clock, folded, cover the LCD display |
| Answer: | No. You can see in the photo that the stand has an open area in the center. That opening leaves the digital display visible when the stand is in the closed position. The control buttons, however, ARE covered when the stand is flipped over the front. I suppose it could be considered unprotected in the closed position, but it is exactly what I needed for the application that prompted my purchase. It would be easy to slide a piece of thin protective cloth or other material between the stand and the face, if there is a concern about scratches during travel. |
| Question: | Can you set the time manually i.e. over ride the atomic feature |
| Answer: | Yes! In the normal mode, press and hold "CLOCK" key for 2 seconds until the time zone flashes. Press "UP" or "DOWN" key to set the desired time zone. Press "CLOCK" key again until the Year digit flashes and repeat the same operation that was used to change the time zone. Continue to press "CLOCK" until the calendar and time areas appear. Use the "UP" and "DOWN" until you reach the desired settings. Press and hold the "CLOCK" key for 2 seconds to save and exit the settings. You have manually set the clock. If you do not want to receive the radio signals that will automatic set the clock, there is a switch in the battery compartment on the right side that should be moved to the off position. |
| Question: | How long will the battery last with the night light on all night |
| Answer: | I've had mine for a few months and it's still working like it did on Day 1. |
| Question: | Is the background color always yellow with black letters or do you have to push backlite button to get this color |
| Answer: | You must push the backlight button to get the clock to look like like the picture. Normally it is gray background with black numbers. |
Product features
Travel Alarm Clock with Auto Back Light Feature
Marathon's Travel Alarm Clock with Auto Night Light Feature presents an automatic or manual (user selectable) back light display which activates in low light settings.
Calendar and Temperature
This clock automatically sets and adjusts the time (including day and date) using radio frequencies broadcast from NIST's Colorado Atomic Clock, thus always keeping accurate time.
Folds into One Compact Unit for Travel - Batteries Included
Displays time in 12 or 24-hour formats. Features 6 time zones (Pacific, Mountain, Central, Eastern, Atlantic or Newfoundland), one-touch glow display, indoor temperature display and an extra loud alarm. Option to choose from 5 languages (user selectable): English, French, German, Spanish and Italian.
Marathon Slim Panoramic Atomic Full Calendar Wall Clock with 8 Time Zones, Indoor Temperature, and Stand - Batteries Included - CL030068WH-SS (White Case/Stainless Finish)
Marathon
User questions & answers
| Question: | La luz se pone tenue del reloj al apagar la luz de la habitación |
| Answer: | No, la verdad no tiene luz solo se ven los numeros si apagas la luz no se ve nada. |
| Question: | What’s the thickness |
| Answer: | Hello from Marathon Watch, Thank you for reaching out to us. The thickness of the Marathon CL030068WH-SS Slim Panoramic Atomic Wall Clock is 1.1 inches. Thank you Marathon Watch Customer Service |
| Question: | Does this have a DC adapter along with it |
| Answer: | No, it does not come with the adapter but I don't think it uses much energy from the batteries. |
| Question: | does it require 1 nail or 2 to hang it on the wall? I want one that requires only |
| Answer: | Hello from Marathon Watch, Thank you for reaching out to us. You only need 1 nail or screw to hang on the wall. Thank you Marathon Watch Customer Service |
Product features
Large Easy-to-Read Display
Easy to read 4" digits. The high contrast display also features day, date, and temperature readouts for at-a-glace functionality. Additionally, days of the week can be displayed in English, French, Spanish, German or Italian.
Atomic Self-Setting Panoramic Clock
Using radio frequencies broadcasted from NIST’s Colorado atomic clock. A Marathon exclusive, choose between PST, MST, CST, EST, AST, NST, HST & AKST with option to turn on or off Daylight Savings Time. (Atomic feature only functions in North America).
Brush Stainless Finish
It easily hangs on a wall or can be placed on a tabletop using the sturdy fold-out stand. The clock’s sleek, contemporary design features a brushed steel finish, a large display and large digits, making this beautiful clock ideal for home, office, school, hospital, etc.
WallarGe Atomic Clock,Digital Wall Clock or Desk Clock,Battery Operated,Self-Setting Digital Alarm Days Clock Large Display for Seniors,Temperature, Humidity and Date,Auto DST.
WallarGe
- Digital Wall Clock, Autoset (no backlight) - Using radio frequencies broadcast from NIST’s Colorado , the clock will automatically set to the correct time. Automatically adjusts to Daylight Savings Time while set the DST on.
- Wall Clocks Battery Operated, with Alarm - This digital calendar alarm day clock required 3 “AA” long life batteries (included) for operation, no redundant wires, easy to use. Turn on the alarm clock before going to bed, it will wake you up in the morning.
- Wall Clocks with Temperature and Humidy - Excellent wall clocks for livingroom, office, bathroom decor,etc. Help you monitor indoor temperature and humidity to avoid cold. 12/24 hours formats with clear Hours, Minutes and Seconds display;4 Time Zone to choose.
- Digital Clock Large Display - Clocks for seniors.This atomic clock has been designed with absolute simplicity in mind, you can also set it manually without any more ado. Wall clock or desk clock, large and clear digital display, easy to read.
- Accurate Date and Time - This digital calendar alarm day clock can help you keep track of dates, days of the week and times to avoid missing any important meetings, appointments or anniversaries, work well for work, study or travel schedule.
User questions & answers
| Question: | Where do I find a digital clock that gives both the indoor and outdoor temps |
| Answer: | On Amazon. |
| Question: | Outside temperature doesn’t display |
| Answer: | It doesn’t display outside temperature as indicates in its specification. There are other models with outside temp sensor but not this model. |
| Question: | What is the dimension of of time displayed |
| Answer: | The time numbers are 2.625" high by 1.25" wide. |
| Question: | Do these clocks come from the factory in sealed boxes? I ordered 2, both defective, which came in unsealed, untaped boxes |
| Answer: | Mine arrived in a factory sealed box. It took it well over a week, maybe two, before it synched with radio signal. After waiting at least 24 hours for it to set itself by radio, I set it manually. It is working perfectly now. |
Product features
How do atomic clocks work?
Atomic clock is an extremely Accurate Timepiece. Most atomic clocks in North America use WWVB's transmissions to set the correct time automatically. They can receive the time signal transmitted by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).The NIST broadcasts the time signal (WWVB,60KHz) continuously from Fort Collins, Colorado. It is expected that the signal can reach a distance of over 2,000 miles from the transmitter.This signal can be received anywhere in the continental USA and Canada .
Important:Understanding the impact of temperature and humidity
Knowing your home’s temperature and humidity level is essential to improving indoor air quality and the overall health and comfort of you and your families. To ensure your home’s air quality, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) suggests maintaining proper indoor temperature and relative humidity (RH) levels to reduce the effects of many of unwanted conditions associated with poor indoor air quality.
How to set the time manually?
1. Press and hold the WWVB SEARCH button for 2s until the antenna tower disappears,cancel the radio wave receiving function.
2. Press and hold the TIME SET button for 2s, the current setting position will flicker to remind, enter the manual setting mode.
Easy to read.
This atomic alarm clock features a clear and large 7.6 inchX4.2 inch LCD display area to meet the visual needs, easy to read for the those with weak eyesight.Time,date, temperature and humidity are at any time,so it's suitable for work,study or travel schedule.
Stylish and beautiful.
The frame of this atomic digital clock is made of ABS plastic material, which is sturdy and durable.It is as white as milk and looks very beautiful.With exquisite packaging, it is a perfect gift for the elderly.
Clock is play very vital role in our life.
Time is very precious and highly important for everyone. Our lives move around the time. We live our lives according to time.If time is so important, so is the clock. Clock and time is two side of one factor. Adding a nice wall clock or desk clock can be a great addition to your home or office. This beautiful atomic digital clock is perfect for office,livingroom,bathroom,bedroom,etc.It is a great gift choice, whether for yourself, your parents, children, friends, or colleagues.
The Ultimate Wall Clock - 14" Atomic, Black, Easy to Read, Perfect for Home, Office, School, Indoor / Outdoor
The Ultimate Wall Clock
Product description
THE ULTIMATE WALL CLOCK is the best quartz wall clock you will ever own. We’ve thought of everything! Based on the same typeface used on highway signs, our large wall clock is easy to read from long distances, day or night. The clear polycarbonate lens on our wall clock provides easy viewing from the widest angle. Need a battery or a hook to hang the wall clock? No problem! We’ve included a super alkaline AA battery and an easy to hang invisible hook.
- THE MODERN WALL CLOCK HAS BEEN PERFECTED. Great for any room at home, work or classroom. The classic black frame with satin finish and modern design compliments any room’s decor. The simple, elegant and versatile style is perfect for your kitchen, living room, bedroom, bathroom, office, meeting room or dining room.
- EASY TO READ - Measuring at a full 14” round, our wall clock is easier to read from long distances, day or night. Razor sharp, dense black ink on pure white paper provides the perfect contrast for maximum readability.
- PERFECT FOR INDOOR AND OUTDOOR USE - Our custom designed exterior battery cover combined with polycarbonate case and lens makes The Ultimate Wall Clock tough enough to handle the elements and prevent damage from falls.
- 100% MONEY BACK GUARANTEE - If you don’t love your new wall clock, simply return it for your money back, no questions asked. Backed by a Full Year Warranty and our excellent customer service, add The Ultimate Wall Clock to your cart now, RISK FREE!
- BACKED BY A SERVICE THAT IS "SECOND" TO NONE - The experts at Team Sparx “hour” ready, willing and able to help troubleshoot and resolve any issues you may have setting up your Ultimate Wall Clock. You can reach out to us any “time” through Amazon. No problem is too big or too “minute” for us to handle.
User questions & answers
| Question: | what is the size of the overall clock |
| Answer: | I haven’t measured it, but according to the item description: “LARGE AND EASY TO READ - Measuring at a full 14” round, our big wall clock is easier to read from long distances, day or night. Razor sharp, dense black ink on pure white paper provides the perfect contrast for maximum readability. And, the clear polycarbonate lens on our silent wall clock provides easy viewing from the widest angle.” |
| Question: | Can this clock be read at night, when the room lights are off |
| Answer: | No, the clock can not be read in the dark. It does not light up nor is it glow-in-the-dark. |
| Question: | Is this clock silent? I want it for my bedroom |
| Answer: | quiet |
| Question: | Does the second hand tick every second or does it sweep smoothly |
| Answer: | Yes they tick and you can hear it. For some reason most of the time they are pretty silent, but then, from time to time they start ticking for maybe 20-30 seconds |
Sharp Atomic Desktop Clock with Color Display - Atomic Accuracy - Easy to Read Screen with Calendar & Day of Week Time/Date Display - Auto Set Digital Dual Alarm Clock - Perfect for Nightstand or Desk
Sharp
- COLOR ATOMIC DUAL ALARM CLOCK - Accurate to the Second! The Atomic Clock has a built in receiver that automatically synchronizes itself with the WWVB radio broadcast by the US Government’s National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in Fort Collins, Colorado. The Atomic Clock will always be accurate to within on second as it receives daily WWVB updates.
- COLOR CALENDAR & DAY OF WEEK DISPLAY - Always know what day of the week it is with a quick glance. The clock displays the calendar and the day of the week. Using the Snooze/Dimmer switch on top of the display, you can easily adjust the display brightness to your liking.
- EASY TO SET DUAL ALARM - Set alarm for two people, or set one alarm for weekdays and the other for weekend!. Snooze/Dimmer Switch is simple to use and on top of the display.
- "NO WORRY" BATTERY BACK-UP - There is a "No Worry" battery back-up option (requires 2 x AAA battery, sold separately), that will allow the alarm to go off, even if the power goes out. The battery back-up stores the time and alarm settings if the power is interrupted. During battery back-up the clock’s display will not be lit. Once power is restored, the display will re-light.
- VARIABLE BACKLIGHT ON DEMAND - Press the snooze button on top of the clock to activate the 3-Step Dimmer Control, illuminating the whole display for 5 seconds. The backlight will also illuminate when the alarm sounds.
User questions & answers
| Question: | How do you increase the sound of the alarm |
| Answer: | There is no volume control, if you feel something is wrong with the clock's alarm please reach out to customer service at [email protected] for warranty information. |
| Question: | How do I change the time to regular time vs military time? When I set the clock it did not have the “pm” setting |
| Answer: | Toggle 12 and 24 hour time by pressing the "12/24 WAVE" button. |
| Question: | can this be placed anywhere or does it have to be in a window |
| Answer: | This clock does not have to be near a window at all times but this does help during initial set up for connection to the atomic signal. |
| Question: | Is this clock primarily to be used via standard AC power? I note that it has optional (?) battery backup |
| Answer: | This clock is electric operated; the battery backup does not power the clock. The battery backup is used for storing the time and alarm settings if the power is interrupted. During battery backup the clock’s display will not be lit. Once the power is restored the display will re-light. |
Product features
Easy to Read Color Display - Easy to Use - Atomic Accuracy
Color Calendar and Day of Week Display - Always know what day of the week it is with a quick glance. The clock displays the calendar and the day of the week. Using the Snooze/Dimmer switch on top of the display, you can easily adjust the display brightness to your liking.
Never Needs Setting -Easy to Read Color Display with Date and Day of the Week Display
- The Sharp Color Atomic Wall Clock has a built in receiver that automatically synchronizes itself with the WWVB radio broadcast by the US Government ‘s National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in Fort Collins, Colorado. The Sharp Atomic Clock will always be accurate to within one second as it receives daily WWVB updates.
- Calendar and Day of Week ColorDisplay - Always know what day of the week it is with a quick glance. The clock displays the calendar and the day of the week.
- 3-Step Dimmer Control for Variable Backlight Control allows you to illuminate the display to your desired brightness.
Sharp (SPC569) - East to Read Color Backlit Display
Always know what day of the week it is with a quick glance. The clock displays the calendar and the day of the week. Using the Snooze/Dimmer switch on top of the display, you can easily adjust the display brightness to your liking.
Simple Easy to Use Controls
Clean, elegant design that will fit into any decor. Controls are easy to use and are on the back of the clock to give a clean simple look to any room.
Perfect Size for Bedroom, Office , or Living Room
Perfect size clock will fit almost anywhere , but is still easy to see and use with the elegant color display.
SHARP - A Name You Can Trust.
Sharp has been making quality alarm clocks for over 25 years and is the largest suppler of Retail Alarm Clocks in the United States with over 61,000,000 sold. Millions trust us with helping them start their day and staying on track.
La Crosse Technology WT-3122A 12.5 Inch Wood Atomic Analog Clock, 12.5", Cherry Walnut
La Crosse Technology
Product description
- Cherry Wood veneer finish
- Atomic Time with Manual Setting
- Accurate to the Second
- Automatically Updates for Daylight Saving Time (On/Off Option)
- 4 USA Time Zone Settings
- Simple Operation: Insert 1 AA Alkaline Battery
- 12-1/2-inch wall clock with automatic setting to U.S. Atomic Clock
User questions & answers
| Question: | It is dst for eastern region, my clock has reset itself 2hrs later. it is now 12:30 and clock shows 2:30. how to fix |
| Answer: | Follow this link to the owners manual, it will explain how to set up your clock. https://www.lacrossetechnology.com/media/catalog/product/g/e/generic_uts_manual_5-14v2_3.pdf |
| Question: | Does this clock make any noise? Other than the setting periods. I don't want it to tick |
| Answer: | I noticed some reviews from about six years old saying that it's quiet and all the recent ones say otherwise. Mine is 11 years old and is one of several of this brand that I have owned. I can hear the ticking just fine from across the room, and the sound made at 15 second intervals (0,15,30,45 seconds) is more pronounced. |
| Question: | Will this clock work correctly if hung on a north facing wall |
| Answer: | You have to remember that it depends on where you are located from the NIST transmitter located in Boulder Co. Most Americans are east of Boulder hence the recommendation to mount it on a west facing wall close to the outside. If you are south of Boulder than a north wall would be best. The farther away from Boulder the weaker the signal. I'm all the way on the east coast and can receive the signal well enough to maintain synchronization with the atomic clock. The only cliches occur at the daylight saving time changes but that rights itself in a day or so. Mine fLa Crosse lasted thirteen years and I'm about to order this one as a replacement. Well worth the investment! |
| Question: | Please advise what type of wood and finish |
| Answer: | Not sure of the type os wood but it is finished very nicely. Stained to a beautiful finish. The schedule for daylight savings time is wrong and impossible to get tech support from the company. I recommend you take a pass on this clock. No matter how nice the finish, the wrong time renders the clock worthless. No not buy! |
Product features
Self Set Accurate Atomic time
- Atomic Time with Manual Setting
- Automatically Sets to Exact Time
- Accurate to the Second
- Automatically Updates for Daylight Saving Time (On/Off Option)
- 4 Time Zone Settings (PT-default; MT; CT; ET)
Beautiful Finish Frame
- Wood veneer finish
- 12.5-Inch Walnut colored frame (2" depth)
- Glass Lens
- Black metal hands
- 9.5-Inch off-white dial
Single battery operation
- Simple Set: Install brand name alkaline battery; press time zone setting and if applicable: *DST is default ON (*Switch to OFF only if your state, such as Arizona, doesn't observe DST)
- Requires 1 AA Alkaline Battery (not included) for operation
La Crosse Technology 513-1311OT Jumbo Atomic Digital Wall Clock with Out Temperature, Silver
La Crosse Technology
Product description
- Large, 4.25 inch time display.Monitors IN temperature (F/C).Atomic time and date (manual setting)
- Automatically updates for Daylight Saving Time (on/off option).12 / 24 Hour time
- Insert 3 new “C” batteries(not included) into the clock.Observe the correct polarity
- Insert 2 new “AAA” batteries into the outdoor sensor. Observe correct polarity. The red LED will flash when transmitting.
- After 5 minutes place sensor outside in a shaded location.
User questions & answers
| Question: | Will this work in India |
| Answer: | Yes, it works in Australia - you just need to use the manual setting too, because we can't access Atomic time. |
| Question: | What is the size |
| Answer: | Frame of clock is 10.5 inches by 16.5 inches. I use this clock in my classroom--I love it! |
| Question: | Can the clock's time be set and will it work without the transmitter |
| Answer: | You can set the time without the transmitter and it will keep time, the time just won't be atomically correct. If the transmitter can be picked up, though, the clock will automatically pick it up and use it. You can't turn the transmitter off. |
| Question: | Anyone else having an issue with this clock losing the outside temperature? Only works if I keep the clock and temperature sensor are very close |
| Answer: | I have the 512 B-811 Clock and I have the same issue. I have to put the outside sensor just outside my window to make it work. Not the best place for it either because it is in the sun most of the day.I did e-mail support for my problem hope to get a answer soon. When I do I will pass it on to you. Good luck with yours . Bradley. |
La Crosse Technology 513-1417CH-INT Atomic Digital Clock with Temperature and Moon Phase
Alkaline battery dated at least 7 years in advance (super, ultra, max, heavy duty and rechargeable types should be avoided). Place them back into the remote sensor; making sure they are installed according to the diagrams in the battery compartment.
Next, taking care not to press any buttons, reinstall the batteries in the display according to the diagram in the battery compartment.
Do not press any buttons for at least 15 minutes after installing the batteries. (Let them establish a good connection.)
The temperature should be showing on your display. You can now put your sensor back outside.
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Following is a basic restart procedure for clocks and weather stations that do not have wind or rain:
Bring both units inside and have the units 3-5 feet apart with nothing between them.
Remove all power from both units.
Press one of the buttons on the display at least 20 times to clear all memory. Verify that the display is blank before proceeding.
Let all the units sit with batteries out for 10 minutes.
Be sure to use a new, Brand Name Alkaline battery dated at least 7 years in advance (super, ultra, max, heavy duty and rechargeable types should be avoided). Place them back into the remote sensor; making sure they are installed according to the diagrams in the battery compartment.
Next, taking care not to press any buttons, reinstall the batteries in the display according to the diagram in the battery compartment.
Do not press any buttons for at least 15 minutes after installing the batteries. (Let them establish a good connection.)
The temperature should be showing on your display. You can now put your sensor back outside.
By Theresa L. Brezden on December 15, 2020
