Why were cuckoo clocks invented

Some theories suggest that by the late 17th century, farmers in the region had learned to make cuckoo clocks out of wood collected from the forest in order to supplement their earnings in colder months. However, cuckoo clock production remained a small and niche segment for the next couple of centuries. Over the centuries, the production of cuckoo clocks in the Black Forest has evolved with rapid technological developments as well as demand, but clock-makers from the region still strive to maintain the same authenticity and workmanship displayed by their ancestors.

We and our partners use cookies to better understand your needs, improve performance and provide you with personalised content and advertisements. To allow us to provide a better and more tailored experience please click "OK". Sign Up. Travel Guides. Videos Beyond Hollywood Hungerlust Pioneers of love. Anwesha Ray. The first mentions of the cuckoo clock. The original design of the Bahnhaeuseluhr, drawing by Friedrich Eisenlohr left , , realized by Kreuzer, Glatz and Co.

The first cuckoo clocks of the Black Forest. The cuckoo clock is an item shrouded in mystery. Nobody can say for sure when and where the cuckoo clock was invented. What we do know is while cuckoo clocks are often associated with Switzerland, the cuckoo clock was almost definitely invented in Germany sometime in the 17th century. The cuckoo clock has sparked a lot of creativity over the years, with people vying to create the largest cuckoo clock — and you can see plenty of examples in Germany, where people remain very proud of their cuckoo-clock-making heritage.

There are some clocks in Germany big enough for you to step inside and marvel at the incredible engineering. Related: How do Cuckoo Clocks Work? When it comes to cuckoo clocks in the Black Forest, we believe the first examples were created between and By this time, there were many small clockmaking shops producing cuckoo clocks with wooden gears.

Where do the clocks come from? How are the clocks made today? Do all cuckoo clocks have carvings? How does the cuckoo clock work? How is the call of the cuckoo created? Is the Black Forest style the only style? The cuckoo clock is a timeless masterpiece.

To find out more or to see one in action in your own home, call or visit us at Frankenmuth Clock Company. Back to News. How Cuckoo Clocks are Made. How to Maintain Your Grandfather Clock.