So, that wasn't a perfect simile. Regardless, I am fortunate enough to have an internal clock that helps. If I wake up, for instance, at 0800 for two days in a row, then on the third day I will wake up at 0800 without any alarm.

You could try setting your stereo to 5 minutes earlier each day, then after the third or fourth day set it back 15/20 minutes to the original time and see if you wake up naturally. It could take much longer to develop that sleeping habit, but I really do think that waking up naturally is the greatest help for remembering dreams - personally.