A timer system includes a power switch operable to power circuit closing and opening conditions, timing means for identifying various timing segments over a 24-hour period and marker storage means having respective power turn on and off marker storage locations assigned to the time intervals encompassing a 24-hour period. An on-off push button or other on-off control operates the power switch and may act as an aid in setting the markers in the storage means. The timer system may also include a rotatable present time setting dial, also adjustable to different positions representing the different time intervals, and a manually operable timer on-off setting member. For real time programming, control means respond to normal operation of the on-off control during a first 24-hour period, initially to set said markers in the storage locations. For fast programming, the control means responds to the successive advancement of said dial from a present time setting through said various positions and the selective operation of the push button or other on-off control to set the markers in the storage locations assigned to the time interval involved, which markers automatically control the operation of the power switch when the timer on-off setting member is in its timer-on position, except when overriden by operation of the on-off control.