Western Clock Co. Alarm Clock, 1918-1931

By the late 19th century, spring-driven, key-wound alarm clocks helped Americans wake up and arrive on time for work, school and appointments. Manufacturers sometimes gave these inexpensive clocks imaginative names to help sell their products. Westclox -- a registered trademark of the Western Clock Company -- named this clock "Big Ben," linking the company's product with the famous bell and clock tower in London.