The collection includes the 'Astronomical Clock' created by Johann Baptist Beha, one of the most complex mechanical timepieces of the 19th century.
The museum holds a rare 'water clock' mechanism dating back to the Middle Ages.
It maintains one of the largest archives of original cuckoo clock company catalogues and patent drawings globally.
The building was specifically designed to house the collection, evolving from a former vocational school for clockmaking established in 1850.
The museum exhibits 'flute clocks,' which use miniature organ pipes to play music on a schedule.
The German Clock Museum in Furtwangen houses the world's most comprehensive collection documenting the history of timekeeping, specifically focusing on the Black Forest region. The permanent exhibition displays over 1,000 exhibits spanning from medieval iron clocks to modern atomic timepieces. Visitors explore the evolution of the Black Forest cuckoo clock, from early 18th-century wood-carved prototypes to mass-produced iconic designs. The museum serves as a research institution affiliated with Furtwangen University. Interactive displays allow guests to hear the sounds of various historical mechanical timepieces. The architecture integrates historical design with modern museum display techniques. It is situated in the heart of the region that pioneered the industrialized production of clocks in Germany.
The main hall, which features a vertical display of dozens of wall clocks synchronised to create a visual wall of time.
Use the provided museum tablets for detailed audio-visual commentary on specific mechanical movements.
Visit the 'Clock Workshop' exhibit to understand the specific tools used by traditional Black Forest clockmakers.
Allow extra time to observe the daily mechanical demonstrations which highlight specific chime sequences.
Do not attempt to touch the open clock mechanisms, as they are fragile and strictly monitored.
