Founded in 1921, Braun's alarm clocks emphasize compact, functional design. Product lines include travel, standard bedside, and radio-controlled clocks; some models offer a Reflex Control motion-sensing snooze. Radio-controlled units synchronize with national time signals and adjust for daylight saving time automatically. Availability of specific classic models varies by market.

A short history and design focus

Founded in 1921 by Max Braun, Braun built a reputation for compact, functional consumer electronics and clean industrial design. The company's alarm clocks are best known for their small footprint, clear dials and straightforward controls - design traits that trace back to mid-century Braun pieces.

Product ranges today

Braun alarm clocks traditionally appear in three broad ranges:
  • Travel clocks: small, battery powered, built for portability.
  • Standard bedside clocks: simple time-and-alarm units with readable faces.
  • Radio-controlled (often called "atomic") clocks: units that receive time signals from national time services and can set themselves and adjust for daylight saving time.
Many Braun travel and bedside models use AA batteries and favor minimalist operation over feature-heavy interfaces.

Motion-sense snooze (Reflex Control)

One of Braun's notable features introduced in the 2000s was Reflex Control: a motion-sensing snooze and light function. When the alarm sounds, a wave of the hand over the sensor activates snooze or a backlight instead of pressing a button. It's handy for half-asleep moments, though the sensor can be obstructed by opaque covers or very low light angles, which prevents the gesture from registering.

Radio-controlled clocks and accuracy

Braun's radio-controlled models receive a timing signal from national time services (for example DCF77 in parts of Europe or WWVB in North America). These clocks set themselves and typically update for daylight saving changes automatically, removing the need for manual resetting. The underlying time standards are derived from atomic clock ensembles maintained by national labs, which are orders of magnitude more stable than mechanical clocks.

Classic models and availability

Classic Braun model numbers mentioned in older guides include AB25, AB5a, AB4a and other AB/DB series units. These were common in the company's earlier lineups and illustrate the simple, functional approach Braun used for bedside clocks. Availability of specific model numbers varies by market and production year; some are discontinued or sold under license.

Buying and care tips

  • If you want a no-fuss bedside clock, choose a standard or travel model with large numerals and a single AA power source.
  • For automatic time updates, look for radio-controlled (time-signal) units and confirm which signal they use (region matters).
  • If you rely on the motion snooze, test the sensor before purchase to confirm it reacts reliably in your lighting and bedside layout.

Ownership and brand licensing since 2005: confirm current corporate ownership/licensing arrangements for Braun clocks and small appliances.

1 Current availability of Reflex Control models and which modern Braun clocks use motion-sensing snooze.

2 Status and market availability of classic model numbers (AB25, AB5a, AB4a) in 2025.

  1. Verify current corporate ownership or licensing arrangements for the Braun brand and specifically who holds rights for Braun alarm clocks (changes occurred after 2005).
  2. Confirm which current Braun models (if any) include Reflex Control motion-sensing snooze and whether those are sold in 2025.
  3. Check market availability of classic AB/DB model numbers (AB25, AB5a, AB4a) and whether they are discontinued, sold under license, or still manufactured.

FAQs about Braun Alarm Clocks

What is Reflex Control?
Reflex Control is Braun's motion-sensing feature that lets you wave a hand to trigger snooze or activate a backlight instead of pressing a button.
Do Braun radio clocks set themselves for daylight saving time?
Yes - Braun radio-controlled clocks that receive national time signals typically update the time and adjust for daylight saving changes automatically.
What batteries do Braun alarm clocks use?
Many Braun travel and bedside models run on one or two AA batteries, but battery type varies by model - always check the specifications before buying.
Are the classic AB series Braun clocks still available?
Some classic AB/DB series models are available used or through select retailers, but availability varies. Several older model numbers have been discontinued or are sold under license.
How accurate are radio‑controlled ("atomic") Braun clocks?
Radio-controlled Braun clocks synchronize to national time signals derived from atomic time standards, offering far greater long-term accuracy than mechanical clocks and eliminating most manual adjustments.