The name ESGE is formed from the initial letters of the surnames of the founders, Werner Spingler (“Es”) and Josef Gschwend (“Ge”). The company made small electrical household appliances and became best known for the ESGE hand blender, which went on sale in 1954. The company's history is associated with locations in Germany and Switzerland. In the 1960s and 1970s, its range also included small electric clocks and alarm clocks, among them mains-powered synchronous alarm clocks such as models OC 123 and MC 123. These clocks were driven by the mains frequency. They ran quietly; the alarm sounded as a clearly audible buzzer. Many ESGE alarm clocks from this period have compact plastic cases in bright colours with softly rounded shapes. Some models have integrated lighting; later versions were also offered with a green fluorescent display. Features and design vary by model.