Could you forgive a pretty but annoying alarm clock?
30.9.2025
Translation: Elicia Payne
Pictures: Pia Seidel
The Lumos Clock fits harmoniously into various styles of living interiors with its elegant wooden design. There’s just one factor that gets in the way of the perfect start to the day.
I’ve been on the lookout for a bedside clock for a while now, one that not only looks great but also replaces my smartphone as an alarm clock and doubles as a bedside lamp. With the Gingko Lumos Clock, I felt like I’d finally found what I was looking for. I was immediately drawn in by its soft design. But can it keep its promise when it comes to functionality?
The look: like a decorative object
The Lumos Clock comes in two shapes – oval and square, made from either walnut wood or ash wood. Its rounded edges and fabric display give it a soft, modern look. I chose the square, ash wood version because it perfectly matches my interior. Plus, the clock is compact and light enough to take travelling with me.
I think it’s really cool that the Lumos Clock doesn’t look like a multifunctional device at first glance. The sound activation mode keeps the display off until you tap it.
There’s just one eyesore – the company logo on the top edge. This could have been placed more subtly, for example, on the back.
Light and sound: annoying alarm tone
With one tap, I can switch between three brightness levels. The lowest level is just right for when I need to get up in the night. In the morning, the warm LED light creates a relaxed start to the day, even if I have to activate it manually.
The only downside is, the Lumos Clock alarm definitely isn’t for those who struggle in the morning. If you don’t turn it off quick enough, the annoying beep will get louder and louder – for a full 60 seconds. Then the clock gives you five minutes of snooze time before it yanks you out of your dreams again.
The alarm and snooze functions are pretty handy if you want it to replace your smartphone, but the shrill sound isn’t my cup of tea. And there’s no option to change it or turn it down – a real drawback in my eyes.
Technical details: minimalistic, but not smart
The Lumos Clock charges via USB-C and is super easy to use thanks to its clear buttons and symbols. The battery lasts up to 15 hours in night light mode or about 10 days with the permanent display on. After that, it takes about four hours to recharge. It’s made from durable materials like wood and LEDs, which use much less power than conventional LC displays. However, the battery’s not replaceable, which could limit the life of the device.
In a nutshell
Easy on the eyes, harsh on the ears
The Lumos Clock impresses with its stylish look and practical night light function. As an alarm clock, though, it disappoints. The jarring sound and lack of customisation options make mornings pretty stressful.
At 82 francs, it’s on the pricier side for a design alarm clock, yet it doesn’t come with any smart features or customisable wake-up tones – something you’d expect in this price range. Nevertheless, if you’re looking for a stylish bedside clock with additional functions, this is the right choice. For a relaxed start to the day, my smartphone’s still the better option.
Pro
- Elegant ash wood body
- Digital LED display for clear visibility
- Suitable as a night light with three brightness levels
- You choose when the time is displayed
- Compact design
Contra
- One alarm tone, zero fine-tuning
- Volume control not adjustable
Header image: Pia Seidel
Pia Seidel
Senior Editor
Pia.Seidel@digitecgalaxus.chLike a cheerleader, I love celebrating good design and bringing you closer to everything furniture- and interior design- related. I regularly curate simple yet sophisticated interior ideas, report on trends and interview creative minds about their work.
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