thanks guys, I have a lot of stuff to think about now... A talking clock would seem nice... Don't know if I can find an affordable micro controller with enough ram for that though. I will look into it though.
A heads up display is very fragile AFAIK, a virtual retinal display (laser) is way too expensive...
I could try a vibration system, that's not too difficult to make.
I was planning to use magnetic switches to keep the electronics water tight.
I'll send pics once I have something, but it may take a while!

Thanks, Dennis