When it comes to playing chess, having a reliable and accurate chess clock is essential. While digital clocks have become more popular in recent years, many players still prefer the classic feel of an analogue chess clock. There are many quality choices you can get.
While BHB is a viable choice, you can get the Betterline Retro for a funky look, the Garde for a classic one, or the Enfudid for a professional and luxurious aesthetic.
Analogue clocks are also often more affordable and easier to use for beginners. In this article, we’ll explore the top 5 best analogue chess clocks in 2023.
Top 5 Best Analogue Chess Clocks
In this list, we’ve gathered the top picks after going through the several options out there to save you time and effort. Without further ado, let’s check them out.
1. BHB Special Mechanical Chess Clock
The BHB clock comes with a classic design and feel. It features a wooden case and brass accents.
It operates mechanically, which requires winding before use. While this may be more time-consuming than digital cocks, many chess players prefer the traditional feel of a mechanical clock.
The BHB clock also comes with a dual timer, allowing each player to track their own time and their opponent’s at the same time.
It measures 3.15” x 5.9” x 1.6,” so it’s not so chunky. Yet, its face is bright and large, making it easy to read.
2. Wholesale Diamond Quartz Analogue Chess Clock
With the Diamond Quartz clock, you get diamond quartz timing powered by 1AA batteries. It’s made from sturdy plastic, so it withstands the wear and tear of heavy use.
It measures 7.4” x 5.2” x 2.8”, which leaves room for its big clock faces.
However, it’s worth mentioning that its shape resembles that of an alarm clock. Add to that, the two clock faces are in the same panel, which makes it look less luxurious.
The Diamond Quartz suits personal use the best since it’s sturdy and efficient but it doesn’t look like a clock you’d use at a tournament.
3. Betterline Retro Analogue Chess Clock
If you want a unique aesthetic, the Retro chess clock is a very viable choice. It comes with a red or yellow body. Both clocks’ faces and the two buttons on top are golden.
The contrast in the color is the main reason it looks incredibly mystical.
The clock also features a second timer, giving you as precise measurements as digital clocks.
It measures 2.17” x 6.1” x 3.54”, which is not too small or big.
4. Enfudid Professional Chess Clock
Like the Retro clocks above, this professional chess clock comes with golden lines surrounding the clock faces as well as golden buttons.
If you’re looking for a clock to match a competitive setting, this one is a fit choice. It also comes with a quartz clock that uses a quartz crystal that regulates the electronic oscillator to keep the time.
That’s why this clock is a lot more accurate than mechanical clocks. It’s made of high-quality plastic, so it’s there to stay. So, it’s the best for tournaments and more professional setups.
It measures 5.91” x 3.54” x 2.17”, which is compact; yet another reason it’s a tournament-worthy choice.
5. Garde Classic Chess Clock
Garde is one of the popular chess clock brands. They keep their style by presenting their clocks in a wooden box. This one is no different. The cedar wood is an elegant choice, topped with a 2.7” clock face.
It gives you the classic feeling of the first chess clock ever used in 1883.
Its cock faces are simple and easy to read, and the box comes with two buttons that you can press to indicate each player’s turn.
This one is a multi-purpose choice. You can use it to play games such as Go or Charades.
It measures 8.66” x 4.72” x 2.36”, which is a little bigger than some of the options on the list. Yet, what it loses in compactness it makes up for through the aesthetics and readable clock faces.
Why Choose an Analogue Chess Clock?
When it comes to chess clocks, there are two main types: analogue and digital. While the latter has become more popular recently, many players still prefer analogue clocks for three main reasons: accuracy, reliability, and durability.
One of the main advantages of analogue chess clocks is how accurate they are. analogue clocks are easier to set and adjust than digital ones. You’ll find simple dials or buttons on most models, which you can use to adjust the settings.
Another advantage of analogue chess clocks is how reliable they are. Unlike digital clocks, they’re never affected by power outages or other technical issues, given their mechanical operation.
This is why they’re in tournaments or other competitive settings, where accuracy and reliability are of the essence.
Finally, analogue clocks are a lot more durable than digital ones. Mainly, this is because their construction relies on wood or plastic, which have a higher ability to withstand the wear and tear of regular use.
Features to Look For
Here are some of the most essential features to double-check before you buy the clock.
Material
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing an analogue chess clock is the material.
Look for high-quality materials to get a long-lasting and durable clock. These include metal, wood, and plastic—all of which stand well in the face of wear and tear.
Ease of Use
The clock you get should be easy to set up, use, and read. Make sure you’re able to understand the instructions and go through them. Not only that, but you should ensure it’s easy to wind and set the time controls.
Sound Quality
When opting for a chess clock, you want something clear and audible, even in a noisy environment.
The sound should also be distinct and easy to identify. That way, players can quickly and easily determine whose turn it is.
Conclusion
In conclusion, selecting the best analogue chess clock depends on the player’s preferences and needs. The market offers a variety of options, from traditional wooden clocks to modern digital ones with added features.
If you prefer a classic look and feel, opt for the BHB wooden clock. It’s durable, large, and its faces are easy to read.
If you travel frequently, the Wholesale Diamond Quartz clock would be a good choice as it’s lightweight and compact.
Think about your style, preference, and budget. Once you have those in mind, it’ll be much easier to land a final choice.
