Expert: William J Perkins - 6/30/2008

Question
Hello and thank you for making yourself available to help others.

I am heading out of the U.S. at the end of August for a minimum of 2 years for missionary work. I am looking for a 30/31 day wind-up clock because I cannot be certain there will be electricity at all times where I am heading.  

And I am absent-minded enough that a 30hour or 8day clock would both forget to be wound all too often before the clock wound down.

Other than the 30/31 day type... I am looking for reliablity and compactness - the smaller the better. Certainly nothing bigger than the schoolroom type clocks.  

Finally cost is an issue.  I'd like to spend less than $50. But would be willing to approach $100 for the right clock.

Can you point me in a direction?  I don't expect you to have "my" clock in your back pocket.  But any advise on type/brand or where I might have success finding such a clock would be greatly appreciated.

Answer
I would suggest you go to a local drug or variety store to acquire the clock you seek.  (Walgreen, K-mart, Walmart)  From the way you describe your needs I really believe a quartz clock, battery driven would much better fulfill your requirements.  Battery life is easily a year and you eliminate the vagaries of remembering to wind.  I have one I purchased from Radio Shack.  The current battery has been in the clock for well over two years and it is still keeping fabulous time.  Mine is 2" x .75" x .25" and comes in a leather slip case.  I hope this helps you and may the Force be with you.  WJP