There's simply nothing worse for a chap than the shrill peeeeeep of an early morning alarm call. Nothing more devoid of charm, nor more inducing of depression. Nothing less like the husky 'come back to bed' of one's favourite squeeze. In fact, the early morning alarm call is the dread sound of modern man. And it is, for the sake of one's sanity, and good looks, to be avoided at all costs.

Now at last there is salvation in the form of the petrol-headed Rev Alarm Clock/Radio, which puts pedal to metal in its own, sweet way. Imagine, if you will, the classic dial of a rev counter from an Italian sports car weaving above the hills of the French Riviera. Then add a touch of 21st century technological pizzazz for good measure.

A clear LCD panel displays the time. But that's the least of the clock's features. The alarm function is uniquely original and unlike anything we have encountered in many years of testing and product evaluation here in the lab at gadgetshop HQ. Sampling the roar of a beautifully-revved sports car engine, the alarm sound itself seems to escalate in mechanical intensity the longer it is left, before zooming off at speed.

An authentically styled headlamp switch activates the clock's backlight. And there is, of course, a snooze button, for the preservation of one's pillow-time. Both are melded seamlessly with the clock's fabulously retro styling, evoking a pre-Gatso era of open roads, attractive lady drivers and saluting RAC men.

But it's the alarm sound that steals the show. It's not just a Rev. It's a Right Rev.