Black Forest Clocks

An Early Black Forest Musical Flute Clock "Fötenuhr"

2011-11-29T17:23:00.007-07:00

This is a beautiful Black Forest flute clock. This flute clock represents the earliest construction style where the time, strike, and musical works all share a simple clockwork style housing. By 1820 this style was not longer used and a removable clockwork was then incorporated into a more robust musical framework…allowing for more a much more complex musical machine to be developed.

This flute clock is very small having a total shield height of under 18″!

The clock plays 6 lovely tunes on a rang of 15 wood pipes. The tunes range from fast peppy tunes to slow waltzes.

A Very Rare "Beha Cuckoo Clock" made by Johann Baptist Beha, Eisenbach with eye-turner "Augenwender" complication

2011-11-29T17:15:00.003-07:00

This cuckoo clock is hands down one the best cuckoo clocks in our collection. The clock in in magnificent condition, and is an excellent example of Beha's work for the 1860's.

The Biedermeier case has an ebonized finish with extensive inlay work of brass, zinc, and colored turtle shell.

The dial is zinc, and is decorated with 12 enamel cartouches that are set in gilded embossed brass bezels. This is one of the most elegant dials that can be found on a cuckoo clock.

The clock utilizes a wood plate movement with double fusees, and has a running duration of 8-days.

What really makes this clock rare is the miniature oil painting that is seen behind glass in the base of the clock. As the pendulum swings an eye from the dog and hare move with the swing of the pendulum adding a very subtle animated display.

A Balck Forest Sorg clock or Sorguhr added to the collection

2011-11-29T16:58:00.004-07:00

It has been quite some time since we updated our online museum. This is a clock that we are excited to be able to share with you today.

This Black Forest miniature is frequently called a Sorg clock or Sorguhr, names after the inventor of this design Franz Joseph Sorg.

Although all Sorg clocks are considered rare, this example is very unusual as it does not follow the traditional style used on Sorg clocks.

Instead of the traditional embossed brass crest this example has a crest made of wood that has been decorated with a delicate oil painting.

The clock has a total shield height of only 3.5".

The movement is a miniature wood plate movement that has brass gears held in wooden arbors and has both time and strike complications.,it is signed and dated 1837.

The pendulum swings in the back on the movement near the wall between two small wooded posts called "stollen".

The movement is powered by a single weight that rides a pulley that engages the braided rope appling pressure to both the time and strike train of the movement simultaneously.

This is just a beautiful example of a Sorg clock, and a real Gem in our collection.

A Rare Beha Cuckoo Clock with Monk Automation "Beha Kapuziner-Uhr"

2011-09-02T18:14:00.004-06:00

This next clock in our collection is a wonderful clock made by Johann Baptist Beha in the 1870's. The clock has a beautiful gothic walnut case which is designed in the form of a cathedral. The detail work on the case is just amazing, this is truly a price that must be seen in person to appreciate its true splendor.

The clock utilizes a three train wood plate movement. The clock calls the hour with a cuckoo that appears through the round double doors in the upper pediment, the third train of the movement is for the Angelus and automation complication.

At 6:00 am , 12:00 Noon, and 6:00 pm the lower double doors of the cathedral open and a bell ringer lifts his arms pulling a rope in an automated display as two gongs are stuck in rapid succession. On most of Beha monk clocks the figure in the cathedral was a traditional monk dressed in the brown robe. This example has a figure of a bell ringer, probably made for a customer who was protestant. We have seen one other example of a Monk clock with the identical figure.

This particular example is very unusual. It is not found in any of Beha's catalogs... and there is not model number assigned to the clock in the Beha records... as it was clearly produced in very low numbers. We do have in our archives the original drawings two page drawings for this identical clock ... from these drawings the case for this clock would have been produced. Both drawings are signed by Lorenz Beha and dated 1874.

While many other makers other than Beha produced clocks with Monk automation and Angelus strike... the examples made by the Beha firm are without question in a league of their own. We are always looking to document other examples of monk clocks. If you have a Black Forest clock with a Monk complication please contact us through our website at www.blackforestclocks.org

An early Black Forest clock with eye-turner Automaton "Augenwender "

2011-08-03T18:05:00.003-06:00

This clock is an excellent example of a Black Forest picture clock with automation to the eyes in the painting, known as an Augenwender to German speaking collectors.

The clock has a wonderful oil painting of a shepherd calling his flock. The painting is done of a sheet of zinc. As the pendulum swings the two eyes of the herdsman look left to right. The detail work in the painting is just magnificent. The frame is of the early style with detailed painted decorations in the corners, there is an access door in the bottom of the case to access the pendulum.

The movement is a wood plate, spring driven movement. The clock can be dated to the late 1850's early 1860's.

For more rare Black Forest clocks please check out our website at www.blackforestclocks.org

A Magnificent Bahnhäusle Tinplate Cuckoo Clock C 1860

2011-08-03T17:40:00.004-06:00

We are pleased to be able to add this wonderful tin plate cuckoo clock to online museum.

Although we purchased this clock several years back through our website, it had been in a long line of clocks that needed restoration. The clock has now been brought back to its original beauty, and is a wonderful example of a railway-house cuckoo clock with a oil painting on tin.

The oil painting is a magnificent scene of a hunter and two children "bird catchers" looking up at the cuckoo in the old tree. This painting is based on the design of Lucian Reichs C. 1850/51. The cuckoo appears behind the small door concealed within the painting.

We have owned and seen many tinplate cuckoo clocks over the years, but this particular motif in the traditional Bahnhäusle case is one of our favorites.

We are always looking to add other examples of cuckoo clocks with fine oil paintings to our collection. If you have an example you would like us to make an offer on please contact us through our website at www.blackforestclocks.org

Best,

Justin

A Rare Black Forest Musical Harp Clock Hackbrettuhr

2011-06-25T09:10:00.003-06:00

Many years ago we found this early musical Harp clock in Switzerland. The clock was unrestored, but complete and retained its integrity. We made the purchase, and have waited patiently for the past few years as the clock has undergone restoration. This past weekend the cosmetic restoration was completed... and we can now display the clock here in our online museum.

This harp clock was made during the last quarter of the 18th Century (C. 1790) On the hour or on demand the clock will play one of 6 preselected tunes by hitting hammers on the stringed instrument that attaches to the base of the clock. Like the flute and bell clocks a large pinned wood music wheel controls the music.

The shield on this example is nothing short of magnificent... carved by the famous Mattias Faller. The dial is carved from wood, and has extensive gold and silver leaf. The silver leaf has a transparent green and red paint applied over it giving it a metallic "jeweled" finish.

The original bottom wood "screen" that covers the harp and strings is in wonderful condition. Although there are no pipes present in this clock the maker decided to incorporate faux pipes into the design. The gaps between the pipes allow the music played on the strings to escape into the room.

We are very excited to now be able to display this clock in our collection...

We are always looking to add more early Black Forest musical clocks to our collection. If you have a piece that you feel would fit out collection please contact us through out website at BLACKFORESTCLOCKS.ORG

AN EXQUISITELY CARVED "BEHA" SHELF CUCKOO CLOCK

2011-06-05T13:39:00.003-06:00

This magnificent cuckoo clock was just returned to us from restoration this weekend, it has now been added into our permanent collection, and it is with great joy we can now display it here on our site.

The carving on this cuckoo clock is just magnificent. While many cuckoo clocks have carvings applied to the front of a pre-built wood housing this example is completely different in design.

The entire case of this clock is carved out of a single block of walnut. The back of this large block of wood is dished out to allow the wood plate 50 hour cuckoo movement to be installed.

The only piece that is carved from this main block of wood is the dial and "rope" bezel which is a second single piece unit.

Look at the detail on this clock. The animals are all in full relief with several points actually carved out from the main housing. The detail of the hunters rife and strap for the power horn are created in full relief from the same single block as the case. The carved who executed this clock was nothing short of a master.

The maker of this clock was Johann George Beha, a distant relative of the famous Johann Baptist, a very obscure and high quality maker who was mentored by Johann Baptist Beha. Additional details about this maker and the clocks he produced will be covered in detail in our book Rare and Unusual Black Forest Clocks.

A Rare Black Forest Automaton Butcher Clock "Metzgeruhr"

2011-03-17T19:27:00.006-06:00

In the days before PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals),and being a vegetarian was a trendy lifestyle… this butcher clock would be a socially acceptable fit into the everyday home! Even though many today might find this automation a little inhumane, it represented a crucial part of daily life, and for the Black Forest clockmaker’s it was a perfect scene to be incorporate into a clock.

This clock has a painting of an open door barn in the upper section of the shield, allowing the viewer to look into the barn.

Inside this room is a butcher, who is carved from wood and finely painted. He is dressed in is work uniform complete with cap, bib, and white apron (with light traces of blood)! In his hands he holds a large axe.
Lying on the ground of the barn is a ox, also is also carved from wood and painted (including a slight smile on his face!). As the clock strikes the following sequence takes place.

1. The cow immediately stands up
2. The butcher raises the ax
3. The ax is swung hitting the ox on the top of the head, with perfect sequence to the strike to the gong. (this is repeated once for each hour)
4. After the last trike to the gong the ox falls over dead and lies on the ground until the next hour.

The movement in this clock is quite complicated in order to replicate this automated sequence. It is equipped with two count wheels, one stacked on top of each other. The inner count wheel controls the strike, the outer controls the ox. There are also a series of levers that control that butcher, hammer to the gong, the ox, and a shaft that activates the automation at the hour.

This example is extremely original. It still retains its original side doors, and the wood housing behind the automation. The figures also retain their original paint, and after a professional cleaning look fantastic.

The butcher clock is one of the hardest of the Black Forest shield automata to find.

One must be careful purchasing Black Forest automata clocks these days, as many fakes are being made and are on the market. These fakes use old standard clockworks, which are modified to accept automation. They are easily spotted by experts, but many are quite good and are bought by unsuspecting buyers thinking they are getting an original.

We are always looking to add ORIGINAL automata clocks to our collection. If you have a clock that you would like us to consider please contact us through email.

Best,

Justin J. Miller

An Ancient Black Forest Wood Wheel Cuckoo Clock with Paper Shield Holtzräder-Kuckucksuhr

2011-02-16T13:09:00.007-07:00

We would like to share with you a new addition to our collection. This clock represents the end of a decade long search to add a wood wheel cuckoo clock to our collection. We could not be happier with the final result.

As you can see in the photo the clock is completely made from wood and iron wire. Only the escape wheel is brass. This clock is one of the first long pendulum clocks, the escape wheel rises above the top plate of the movement, and is located outside the plates of the movement.

The shield is decorated with paper, that has been colored with water colors.

The hands are also wood.

The condition is nothing short of magnificent.

This clock was made during the second half of the 18th Century.

We are still searching for other early wood wheel clocks for our collection. If you have anything that you thing we would be interested contact us at www.blackforestclocks.org

A Rare Documented Black Forest Cuckoo Clock with Soldier Automaton

2011-02-06T14:20:00.010-07:00

This last week was one of the best we can remember for new acquisitions.

I took a trip to Southern California to meet with a long time collector of Black Forest clocks. This collector had collected BF clocks back in the 1960's to the early 1990's, and at one time had one of the largest collections in the United Sates... but his interests over time changed and about 20 years ago the best clocks were put in storage.

We spent a few days with him going through his clocks , and ended up purchasing 4 very special BF clocks from his collection for our museum. Over the next couple months we will share these new finds with you as we finish the restoration work and add them into our permanent collection.

Since this Black Forest soldier clock needs nothing... we will start with this clock first.

Constructed in the form of a castle, this clock is just stunning. The two tone oak case measures in at 21" high and 12.5 " wide.

As the clock ticks the soldier slowly marches between the two turrets... guarding the fortress. When he reaches the end of his march he does a 180 degree turn around, and then marches back the other way. The soldier automation is one of our favorites, as it is one of the few forms of automata that is connected to the time train of the movement... allowing you to see the action all the time.

In the top of the fortress is a cuckoo door, and the cuckoo calls the half and full hours.

So as a summery this clock has automation connected to both the time train (soldier) and the strike train (cuckoo).

We will be including a "how does it work?" video of this clock on the front page blog of our website blackforestclocks.org. So if you have interest is seeing the mechanics check it out.
We also have an early Soldier clock in the shield variety that can be seen in our online museum through our website.

Another important feature of this clock is its provenance:

This exact clock was photographed by this collector and contributed to the book, Black Forest Clocks by Rick Ortenburger in 1991. This clock is features in the section of Automated Black Forest Clocks... and was given a full page display on page 244. We are including some photographs from this book showing this identical clock.

For those of you who have an interest in owning an original soldier clock of your own, you might be in luck... as we have another example of a soldier and cuckoo in our collection that this clock will replace.

We will be offering this clock up for sale immediately through an ebay auction. We will update this post with a link to its sale, and remove this memo when it has been sold.

Best,

Justin

An Extreamly Rare Black Forest Shelf Clock with Owl Automaton

2011-01-24T17:34:00.011-07:00

This is our newest addition to the collection, and it is a clock that we are so exited to add to our collection and share with you today.

At first look this clock appears to be a shelf trumpeter, with an unusual castle motif... but this is in fact something quite different.

This shelf clock is constructed in the form of a Castle, and beautifully carved. In the top arch of the castle is a large set of double doors, similar in size to what would be found on a trumpeter clock. Instead of the common cuckoo bird or trumpeter a large 3" carved owl with big glass eyes appears behind the doors and calls the full and half hours. As the owl sounds his beak flutters.

The movement is equally interesting. The plates are cast from brass in the lyre form, held together with pins. On the left side of the case is a large oversize wood pipe, with a large bellow. The arm that pumps (flutters) this large bellow needs substantially more leverage than a cuckoo clock. For this reason the clock maker placed it on the time side of the movement... and interesting design. To reproduce the owls call, the bellow is lifted to half capacity and then rapidly fluttered...reproducing the owls call.

It is hard to put into words how rare this clock is... but to give you an idea...

A Wehrle Singing Bird clock is also rare, as is his Rooster clocks, but we know where a handful of each are today. The same thing applies to the Beha cuckoo clocks with life size 12" birds...also very scarce, but we know where there are several. This clock is different.

In all our years of collecting rare Black Forest clocks we have never seen another... not in a book, a museum, a private collection even a photograph... NEVER.

In fact this clock was brought out of the shadows during a lively discussion online among advanced collectors in 2010...the conversation was about if an Owl clock was ever made, or if an antique version exists. Down the line the answer was an owl clock does not exist. Of course after collecting Black Forest clocks for years, you learn to never say never...as we still don't know exactly what was made, and what is actually out there...and magnificent pieces still turn up from time to time. This is why I love collecting Black Forest clocks.

A collector joined the conversation sharing this clock as proof to their existence!

Since the clock has surfaced it was sent to a well known and respected restorer of rare Black Forest clocks. The clock was dismantled and cleaned, the original large bellows was re-skinned, bringing the call of the owl back to life.

Without question this owl clock is original and untouched, and is shown as it was made in the Black Forest C. 1890-1900.

We are always looking to add Rare or Unusual Black Forest Clocks to our collection. If you have a clock that you think we would be interested in please contact us.

To the untrained eye this clock may look like little more than a novelty clock or a nice shelf cuckoo, but to us it was enough to offer a Emilian Wehrle 9 horn two tune trumpeter clock in a wonderfully carved case in a trade to make this deal happen! We are always willing to "step up" to make a deal happen for a clock we want, as we did with this owl clock.

UPDATE: After posting this Owl Clock to our online Museum, we received an email from a German collector, who claimed to know of another example in a European Collection. This email was followed with 3 photographs of another Owl Clock, proving its existence!

This other example is a wall model in a carved case, decorated with ferns and a eagle on the top of the pediment. It is also powered by a cast brass spring driven movement very similar to our example. This other Owl clock shares the identical Owl and wood pipe inside the clock. It is nice to see another surviving example that shares many of the same components of our example here, most likely made by the same unknown maker.

We are grateful for the opportunity to be able to have this website, and use the internet to connect with other collectors all around the world.

A Magnificent Black Forest Sorguhr Biedermeier Case

2011-01-08T15:39:00.006-07:00

This clock is the newest addition to our collection. It just returned to us this week with a fresh overhaul to the movement, and minor restoration work to the case.

We have a passion for Black Forest miniatures, and were thrilled to be able to add this rare cased variety to our collection.

While the traditional Sorguhr consists of a embossed brass shield and enamel dial, there were many variations. This cased example is one of these many variations. Far less common than the traditional Sorg the movement inside this miniature case is true to the form...measuring at 2.5" in height, and 1.75 inches wide. The enamel dial uses Arabic numerals and measures in at 2.25". The case from the top of the finial to the bottom of bottom final is 10.5".

The miniature movement is constructed with wood plates and wood spindles. This example has both a time and strike train. The hours are struck on a small gong located on the backboard. The trains are positioned front to back, and both trains of the clock are powered by a single weight that hangs on a pulley that runs diagonally between the two trains.

We are always interested in meeting other collectors who have an interest in these Black Forest miniatures, both the Sorguhren and Jockele.

Best,

Justin

A Early Cuckoo Clock by Johann Baptist Beha

2010-10-17T19:25:00.002-06:00

This next clock in our collection is a wonderful example of Beha's early work. This cuckoo clock was made by Johann Baptist Beha in Eisenbach in the late 1850's, and it bears his signature on the inside of the backboard. It is surviving proof that there were in fact high quality cuckoo clocks being produced in the Black Forest.

The case on this cuckoo clock is just magnificent. The case maker utilized extensive inlays of both brass and zinc, creating a wonderful floral motif that is just stunning against the ebonized case. The case on this clock was made by the famous Peter Wehrle, who apprenticed in Vienna, working on fine Vinenna regulators. By looking at the etched inlays on the case, and the wonderful proportions in the cases design it is clear it was made by a true maser. Peter Wehrle's experience in Vienna enabled him to be extreamly influential to Beha's success as a high quality maker.
The dial on the this clock is made of Alabaster, and is accented with blue gilt set cartouches. This dial is scarcely found on cuckoo clocks due to the high cost to manufacture. The front door to the case is complete with its original lock mechanism. A key is required to access the dial behind the glass. Bellow the dial is a glass window, trimmed in a gilt frame. While the clock is running the brass pendulum can be seen against a cobalt blue background.
The movement is a typical Beha wood plate movement of the era, using a double fusee... allowing the clock to run a full 8 days on a winding. The movement also has a mechanism where the owner can disable the Gong with the flick of a switch. This quiets the call on the hour, making the night hours more peaceful. The clock retains its original bellow pipes, and tops.

The clock is being shown as it came to us is near complete, but unrestored condition. Its only falut is a missing cuckoo door, but a near identical example resides in the Cuckooland museum in the UK... which will allow us to restore this missing door perfectly.
This last photo shows our new Beha next to another early Beha table clock in the collection. Please read an early post for more details on this other fine Beha table clock is double eye automation.

I am always interested in adding early Beha cuckoos to my collection. If you have a clock you think I would be interested in please contact me directly at madeinfurtwangen@yahoo.com

A Rare Beha Cuckoo with Oil Painting and Double Eye Automation Augenwender

2010-09-07T15:08:00.005-06:00

This next clock is a wonderful example of an early Beha picture frame cuckoo clock. Beha records show this clock was made in 1856, and as you can see from the photos it has survived very well.

The clock has a wonderful painting on zinc that is framed in a wonderful high gloss black frame with stenciled corners.

The painting behind the glass shows a hunter holding his gun with his dog. The dog is just about to flush the rabbit whose moments are clearly numbered.

They eye of the dog and the rabbit move with the swing of the pendulum. In most Black Forest clocks with eye automation, the automation scene is almost always above the dial. This clock is special as the automation action is below the dial, allowing the cuckoo bird to emerge from the tree within the painting.

The detail work on this clock is just fantastic.

The clock is equipped with a spring driven wood plate movement that will run for 50 hours. There is also a feature on this movement where with the pull of a lever through the side door the gong can be disabled quieting the call.

The clock is being shown here with the movement removed from the case in preparation for restoration.

We will update the post with a final photograph when the clock is finished.

We are always looking to add Black Forest clocks with paintings (tinplate) to our collection, both with and without cuckoo or automation.

If you have something you would like to share, I would love to hear from you.

Best,

Justin J. Miller

www.blackforestclocks.org

A Rare and Unusual Black Forest Sorguhr

2010-07-16T20:15:00.002-06:00

This next clock in the collection is a very unusual Sorguhr. This example is different from the traditional Sorguhren in many ways, and at first glance it may even appear to the untrained eye to not be from the Black Forest.

The shield on this sorg is flat brass that has been hand engraved, with a very primitive flower. The whole clock is only 2 7/8" at its largest measurement! It is shown here with a Quarter so you can get a feel for its size.

Although scarcely seen, there are a couple other known examples made by Joseph Sorg with very similar shields. These other examples are also made of flat brass stock, with primitive floral engraving. One example resides in the British Museum in London. This clock can also be seen in the book, "In Die Neue Zeit" Pg 8.
The movement on this Sorguhr is equally unique and we will explain its features here in a moment. The movement is a wood plate, wood arbor movement that is rope drive. The movement has both time and alarm functions. The movement measures in at only 2 3/16" high, 1 7/16" wide, and 1 3/8" deep.The photos with the shield removed lets you see a closer look at this Gem.

The fist thing that is unique about the movement is the alarm trains location. In most Sorguhrn the alarm train is located on the side of the plates where the time train is housed. A small wheel is mounted perpendicular to the rest of the gears. A very simple notched wheel and lever will set and release the alarm at the desired time. On this example the clock maker clearly was experimenting. The Alarm train is located between the plates of the movement, and is in front of the time train. A special cam lever rides a wheel that is notched through the front plate of the movement.A series of pins activate a third hand on the dial to set off the Alarm. A simular set up can also be seen on the Capucine clocks.

We have showed this clock to several experts on Sorguhren in Germany, and they agree this clock is all original and a rare example of Sorguhr.

This next photo set compares this miniature to another traditional sorguhr that we have in our collection (Also a time and alarm variety). You can see the difference in the sizes of the clocks ;)

We are happy to have this little Gem in our collection!

A Black Forest Musical Carillion Shield Clock "Spieluhren" playing 6 tunes on 11 bells

2010-05-01T18:28:00.000-06:00

This next clock in our collection is an excellent example of early Black Forest horology.

Before the musical trumpeter clocks of Emilian Wehrle,there were some wonderful musical clocks made in the Black Forest. Although these early musical clocks are rarely seen outside museums in Europe, they are some of the most desirable of the Black Forest clocks to private collectors.

These early musical clocks include clocks that play on Glass bells,metal bells, strings(harp clocks or Hackbrettuhr)and wood pipes(flute clock).

This is an example of a early Black Forest Spieluhren. The early wood plate,wood arbor three train movement will strike the hour on a large bell located on the top of the clock.

After the hour is called the clock will play one of 6 musical tunes on a nest of 11 tuned bronze bells. By shifting the large pinned wheel you can change the tune.

This example is a true museum quality clock, a fantastic untouched well cared for example that has aged well. We are honored to be able to be its care taker, and are committed to make sure it survives for future generations to enjoy. It has a place in our collection next to a early harp clock (hackbrettuhr). We are still searching for an early Flute clock and a Glass bell Spieluhren. If you have an example of either one of these pieces we would love to hear from you.

Best,

Justin J. Miller

A Magnificent Black Forest Flötenuhren (Organ Clock) with 43 pipes playing 8 American Tunes with Automata

2010-05-01T17:31:00.001-06:00

This fantastic Black Forest organ clock is a recent addition to the collection.Over the years we have owned several organ clocks, but none that we felt was the "perfect" fit to our collection. This clock in our eyes has it all, and will represent the end of our search and a permanent addition to our collection.
This magnificent organ clock was made in the Black Forest C. 1830 for the American Market and will run for 8 days on a single winding. The clock will tell the time and strike the hour, after the hour is struck the movement activates a large organ. The organ plays 8 American tunes on 43 pipes. These tunes include Yankee Doodle, Washington's March,and 6 other American Favorites.

The clock also features a complex automation with four figures. As the music plays the two musicians raise instruments to their mouth and turn side to side with the music. The two dancers in the middle of the dial have a fantastic automation sequence. The move in circles nearly 360 degrees pivoting on post. They are also on a track and move toward each other and back apart. They also jump up and down. The man is jointed in his arms, waist and knees... so there is a great deal of action in this automation sequence. Although we have seen other organ clocks with more figures, this is one of the most fascinating and automation sequences we have seen.

The clock was imported into Philadelphia by a German handler of clocks and music boxes. His label can be found on the inside of the case, as well as the back of the upper dial. Upon its arrival to the United States the clock was cased in a fantastic Flame Mahogany case that has gold leaf accents to the carved columns and the finials.

At this point the clock was retailed to a upper class American customer.

Although organ clocks can still be found on the market not all organ clocks were equal. To find an example of this quality, with a high pipe count, a complex automation function, American tunes, and a magnificent well proportioned case is nearly impossible.

The clock is complete, but is in need of a musical restoration. We hope to have the clock in fully restored playing condition by the end of 2010.

We will be sure to update our blog with a video of the clock at that time.

Best,

Justin J. Miller

A Rare Black Forest Carved Trumpeter With 4 Tune Music

2010-03-18T20:20:00.000-06:00

I recently took a trip to visit the Cuckooland museum in Cheshire, England.

Cuckooland is home to the largest collection of antique cuckoo clocks in the world! (visit them at http://www.cuckoolanduk.net/ ).

The main purpose of the trip was to research and document their collection for a new publication dedicated to Black Forest Horology that will be published shortly.

Roman and Maz Piekarski, owners and curators of the museum, graciously closed the museum to the public for a whole week to aid in this project.

This allowed us to photograph hundreds of rare clocks, movements and tools. Please keep checking back for a 15 minute walkthough video of the museum with dialog that we will share shortly!

We found this rare Black Forest trumpeter clock hiding among their 600+ clock collection of cuckoos.

Although this rare clock had been a part of the museum for 20 years, it now focuses exclusively on the cuckoo clock.

We were able to work out a deal and the museum de-acquisitioned this piece for our personal collection.

It is now a part of our private collection of Black Forest Clocks here in the USA.

The clock is 47" high and 28" across the base!

The case is fantastically carved with a wonderful romantic motif of live animals.

This example is a 3 horn "blower" style trumpeter, with a large robust music box.

The clock is unique as the trumpeter calls the 1/4's with one of four musical tunes played on the hour. We have never seen another configuration like this in all our years of collecting.

One of the four tunes played on the hour is "God Save the Queen", the tune is also recognized in the United States as "America" or "My Country 'Tis of Thee"... which was the de facto National Anthem prior to 1930.

On top of all this the Pedigree of being owned by the Cuckooland museum for over 20 years, it will stand out among many clocks in our collection.

A Group of Musical Shelf Clocks By Emilian Wehrle

2010-02-27T10:56:00.001-07:00

Today we started going through the collection taking photos of the clocks made by Emilian Wehrle. This is in preparation for a small publication that will focus exclusively on Emilian and his musical clocks.

While moving clocks around for photos we decided to take photo of a group of his musical clocks to post on the blog with some information on his musical clocks that is not frequently discussed.

This impressive photo shows a group of 8 day shelf clocks made by Wehrle that are in our private collection. (We also have a couple wall examples that are not included in this photograph).

They are left to right:

1. A special order 8 day, 8 pipe, two tune, shelf flute clock. This example also has a massive 6 tune music box in the base that activates after the organ. It is also equipped with factory coin operation. This is the most mechanically complicated clock in existence made by Wehrle.

2. A 8 day shelf rooster clock, on a matching bracket. One of two known Rooster clocks made by Emilian Wehrle in the States, and the only 8 day/shelf example.

3. A massive 8 day, three train shelf flute clock. This clock has the largest movement made by the Wehrle factory. On the hour the clock plays one of two tunes on a 8 pipe organ. The case is fantastically carved with 8 full relief live animals. The exquisitely carved case is over 50" in height.

4. A special order 8 day, three train, shelf trumpeter clock. This clock also has the largest movement that Wehrle made. The clock plays the William Tell Overture on 8 brass horns. The case on this clock represents the pinnacle of Emilian Wehrle's carved clocks, as there is not another carved clock made by Wehrle like it in existence. Every inch of the case is carved all the way around, the roof is carved (under and over), the side doors, the dial is totally carved out. This clock has a large full relief eagle on the top of the clock, and live birds running on the forest floor.

5. A 8 day, three train, shelf singing bird clock. This clock also utilizes the largest movement that Emilian Wehrle made. The case is ebonized with gold accents. The bird located in the arch way on the top of the clock is fully automated. Singing bird clocks were made in very low numbers, and are one the hardest of all Emilian Wehrle's musical clocks to locate today. There is not a public museum in the world that we know about that has an example (although a small handful are in private collections)

6. On the wall located to the far right is another singing bird clock that is in our collection, also made by Emilian Wehrle. Although not a shelf clock, it is a singing bird and a very special piece.

Over the past decade the appreciation for clocks made by Emilian Wehrle have truly came into their own, with record prices being realized every year for his clocks. Although all clocks made by Emilian Wehrle are considered scarce, not all Wehrle's are equal.

A few decades ago collectors used a simple formula of $1000 per horn to put an approximate value on a trumpeter or flute clock (ex 8 horn $8,000, 4 horn would be $4000), this system although never truly accurate, today has no absolutely no foundation.

It is impossible to determine the value of a Wehrle based on a simple horn/pipe count formula, because the horn/pipe count actual plays only a small part in determining the value of the clock.

Collectors who have focused on the right clocks years ago, today have benefited from the greatest return on their investment... while the more common variety have seen little appreciation.

A 30 hour, wall variety trumpeter or flute clock, with a simple carved or architectural case (The carving can vary from leaves and vines to a traditional hunter motif) may be had today for within this old $1000 per horn reference (or sometimes less), even decades later.

In contrast if the case has multiple (3 or more) large full relief animals, an exquisitely carved case, or a very high quality architectural case, it is put into a whole different category, these massive cased quality clocks are in a category of their own ... as very few were made.

Another important factor is the case style. The shelf examples were substantially more expensive when new, and were made in far less numbers. A heavily carved shelf clock is always in a different league than a similar quality wall example. If you look around today nearly all the trumpeter and flute clocks that are seen are wall examples.

The last factor to consider when searching for the perfect Wehrle for your collection is the movement.

Emilian Wehrle made several different movements for his clocks. His key wind, three train, 8 day movement represents the pinnacle of his mechanical offering. Today this is the movement that is the most desirable, as it was when the clocks were sold new.

Today a "perfect clock" for maximum investment potential will have as many of the above features as possible from a high horn count, to the quality of the case, to the type of case, to the type of movement used.

Today a collector will find well over a dozen examples of "average" Wehrle trumpeter/flute clocks for every one quality piece.

Above all when choosing a trumpeter or flute clock make sure it is a clock that you like, that fits your style and budget.

If you are considering investing in a Emilian Wehrle musical clock we are happy to give you advice/pointers, we always enjoy talking clocks...so drop us an email.

A Rare Apostle Automata Table Clock By Gordian Hettich, Furtwangen

2010-01-28T14:46:00.000-07:00

We want to share with you another clock that is a special part of our collection. This is a large Black Forest shelf clock with Automata. It was made by Gordian Hettich and Sohn in Furtwangen, Germany C. 1890.

The case on this piece is done in oak to replicate a Cathedral. In the center of the Cathedral is a large silvered dial that tells the time. Above the dial is two large turrets in the upper tower of the Cathedral.

On the hour the Church bells toll (on three deep gongs). As the bells toll... the two large doors on the upper turrets open. The twelve apostles proceed to walk out of the right turret door and cross the open balcony to the other side. When the last of the Twelve enters the door on the opposite tower the bells stop and the doors close. This is repeated on the hour every hour or on demand.

According to the GHS factory catalog which we have in our collection. The figures of the twelve apostles were reproduced from the famous masterwork works of sculpture Peter Vischer which can be seen in Nürnberg.

All 12 figures are holding items in their hands, from the holy scriptures to weapons to protect Jesus. The last of the twelve is holding a large sack of coins... there is no question to his identity!

The automation can also be activated on demand by a pull cord. There is also a shut off lever with an ivory knob pushing this knob in towards the case will deactivate the automation and gongs, for peace and quiet.

The movement in this clock is a large cast brass movement which is heald together with tapered pins. The movement is clearly stamped GHS on the the bottom center of the back plate. This is a unique and complex movement that was made for the apostle clock, meaning it was produced just for this piece, and not a normal production movement that was modified by the factory.

The automation is controlled by a set of large drive gears located above the plates of the movement. When these drive gears turn they rotate to large wood drums. A hand made brass "chain" runs around these drums, and the wood carved apostles are fixed to the top of the chain standing one infront of the other. When the barrels turn the apostles are looped through the front of the clock across the balcony and back to the inside of the case. There is also a series of cams that open and close the two doors on the front of the turrets at the correct time. A series of three hammers strike three separate high quality gongs, which are mounted to a rod fixed to the bottom of the case.

The time section of the movement will run for 8 days on a winding, the automation and strike must be wound every 36 hours.

We do not know how many of these Apostle Automaton clocks were produced by GHS, but we do know they are extremely rare today. This example with the Ortenburger pedigree... will always hold a special spot in our collection.

This identical clock was documented in the book, "Black Forest Clocks" by Rick Ortenburger in 1991. This book is the most complete and authoritative book on the subject published in English.

This clock was worthy to have a full page dedicated to it, showing both the front as well as the movement with a detailed description. This is an honor held by only a small handful of special clocks throughout the 265+ page text.

For us... this clock represents the end of a nearly 10 year search, to locate and purchase this piece. Years ago we set out to find, locate, and purchase several of the unique or Rare Black Forest clocks that were photographed in the Ortenburger text. Over the past decade we have located nearly all of the clocks on our list, and they are now a part of our private museum.

This clock is being shown here as we purchased it.

The bars seen in the photo above were added to keep the figures upright. When the automation is in action they move across the track,and they tend to wobble around and get hung up.

You can see in the photo taken from Ortenburgers text the bars have been there since at least 1991. Since they are not permidently attached to the clock, and aid in the automation working without problems... we have decided to leave them on the clock.

The clock is in working condition, and we have included a video to show you this piece in action.

The clock does need some minor restoration to the case, which we have plans to get underway in 2010.

We will update this post when the clock is finished.

Best,

Justin J. Miller

A Closer look at a Black Forest Peddler Timepiece UHRENTRÄGER

2010-01-21T14:27:00.000-07:00

In this post we want to share with you a little more information about a rare miniature clock produced in the Black Forest. There were many different types of miniatures made in the black Forest including the Sorg or Sorguhr, Jockele,and Scottenuhr. The clock peddler or Uhrentrager was also a form of miniature made C. 1850-60.

The clock peddler is a prominent symbol of the Black Forest clock industry. It is an image that is still used today. The history of the clock peddler goes back to the early Black Forest clock industry, where the farmers would produce clocks in the cold winter months. In the spring the young men would load them up on their back and travel to far aways places, selling the clocks.

In the mid 19Th C. the first Black Forest timepieces where made in the image of the clock peddler, these figures are dressed in the traditional Black Forest attire. The figure is made of sheet tin, hand formed into the likeness of the peddler. He stands on a linden wood base, which is then veneered in a fancy burl. The peddler stands anywhere from 15-16" high.

In his arms he holds a miniature working timepiece. This miniature clock is under 3" high and is fully functioning. The front shield has an enamel dial. A miniature pendulum swings below as the clock ticks. The movement is a quality thick brass plate movement with a silk thread suspension and will run for one day.

In his left hand he holds the pendulums for the clocks he carries to sell. On his back is another clock, this clock is a non functioning example. The dial on the clock on the back lifts to reveal a small space for holding the key that is used to wind the clock.

While these Black Forest miniatures have been produced from the mid 19C. up until modern times... the original period examples are extremely rare and collectible. A good clean example will easily bring thousands at auction.

We currently have two examples in our collection (although we will most likely end up holding on to just one of the two).

The photos of this example here is the newest addition to our collection,and is being shown as it arrived to us from Europe today. It is an extremely original example, that retains its original paint and all accessories.

We have put together a small you tube video on the uhrentrager, so you can see what a period example looks like up close (and inside).

We hope you enjoy this rare look at a special early Black Forest clock.

Trumpeter Clock made by Emilian Wehrle C. 1880

2010-01-10T20:45:00.000-07:00

Today we spent a good amount of time rearranging clocks in the collection to find the right spot to display a new addition of another Large Emilian Wehrle musical clock, it is always challenging to integrate these large pieces with the rest of the collection... but we could have worse problems! ;)
After getting all the clocks into their new spots... we took some pictures of some "old friends" and decided to share one of them with you here today. While this clock is featured on our blog in a earlier post, we believe the photos taken today will give you a better look at this wonderful piece.

This trumpeter clock was made by Emilian Wehrle C.1880 in Furtwangen, Germany. It represents the absolute pinnacle of all trumpeter clocks which were ever produced. The movement is a 8 day three train movement, the largest Wehrle made. It is a 8 horn example, which plays the William Tell Overture on the hour.
The case is unreal, it is truly a clock that must be seen in person to truly appreciate and understand. Pictures do not do this piece justice...or show how massive this clock truly is... and the presence it has on the room. It is a clock that must be displayed by itself, as any other carved clock that we own is immediately humbled, and hides in this clocks shadow.
Every inch of the case is carved. The front case, the side of the case, the roof,the side doors, even under the roof where it is not visible. The detail is unreal.
This clock is 44.5" high and over 30" wide. This piece is over 100 pounds. It has been well carved for its whole life, and is in wonderful original condition. On a earlier post you can hear the music that this clock plays on the hour.
It is one of our favorites in the collection, and a clock we believe no matter how long we search, will never find another superior.
We are always looking to document other musical clocks made by Emilian Wehrle. If you have a Wehrle clock of any quality, in any condition we would love to "talk clocks"

Best,

Justin J. Miller

madeinfurtwangen@yahoo.com

A Monumental Emilian Wehrle Musical Automata Clock

2010-01-01T20:22:00.001-07:00

We just added this 50" Emilian Wehrle musical shelf clock to our collection.

This clock is exquisitely carved shelf example, made c 1880 in Furtwangen, Germany. There are 8 full relief live animals carved into this monster case. The top has a family of three mountain goats high up on a rocky ledge. Fern, grass, oak leafs and acorn make up the motif down the sides of the case. At the bottom of the forest floor there is a family of 5 birds with rocks and ferns.

This clock has the largest movement that Emilian Wehrle made. A 8 day three train (time, strike, and Music) movement. On the hour two large flute players step forward and one of two musical tunes is played on a rank of 8 wood pipes.

This clock is being showed as we purchased it. Although it is in excellent original condition.. it does need a musical overhaul and some minor carving work done (and one hand repair).We will be starting the work very soon, and will have the clock full restored by early spring.

We just purchased this clock in New York City, from the Schwartz family who have owned it for over 100 years. The current owners father immigrated to the US in 1890 and was a watch maker and jeweler. His main retail store "L.B. Schwartz" was located on the Corner of 5th Avenue and Bergen Street in Brooklyn, NY. This clock graced his flagship store until 1946.

Here is a photo of the L.B. Schwartz 1906 store in Brooklyn, NY

These two photos are of Mr. Schwartz behind the counter and at his work bench.

The clock was inherited by his son long ago now in his 80's... and through his research looking for a good home for this clock... We were contacted through our website, and a deal was struck. I personally flew out to NYC and safely collected the clock within 24 hours of making a deal.

We are always interested in hearing about other fantastic Black Forest Clocks, and will travel for good pieces.

If you have a Black Forest Clock that you believe we would be interested in, We would love to hear from you. We are always buying quality Black Forest Clocks to add to our private museum.

Best,

Justin J. Miller

"How it Works" A rare look into a Emilian Wehrle Singing Bird Clock

2009-12-19T21:56:00.000-07:00

A Emilian Wehrle Singing Bird Clock is without question one of the hardest of all Wehrle's clocks to locate.

Because of this... there is little information out there regarding these pieces.

After posting on the singing bird clock, we have had several emails with people asking how it works...

We are always happy to share clocks in our collection with anyone who has an interest.

Below is a 4 minute video which gives a brief overview of the inner workings, and a look at the movement being put into action.

We hope this gives you a better understanding of the clock.

If you have a musical clock made by Emilian Wehrle (Trumpeter, Flute, Rooster or Singing Bird) that needs restoration, we are always happy to help with tips on restoation, or tuning of your clock. If we can not help you, we can always send you in the direction of someone who can.

Best,

Justin

A Rare Emilian Wehrle Singing Bird Clock C.1875

2009-12-17T16:57:00.000-07:00

This next piece is a fantastic Singing Bird Clock made in Furtwangen C.1875. This example in in a wonderful Neo-Classical style case. The case is a Dark Walnut, with Ebony trim and gold accents.

The movement in this clock is a very robust brass plate three train movement, the largest Emilian Wehrle made. This movement is 8 day time, strike on the hour, bird song, and automation.

Perched in an arch way on the top of the case is a large songbird, with animation to the head, beak and tail.

On the hour the bird comes alive, followed by the strike on a large gong.

The Singing bird clock is one of the hardest of all Emilian Wehrle's clocks to find. In fact you can count all known examples worldwide on your two hands.

We are very lucky to have captured two beautiful examples in our collection. Our other example is a carved wall model and is featured below on our site.

This clock was purchased through our website. We are always looking to add unique Black Forest Clocks to our private collection. If you have a clock you believe would be of interest please contact me directly at madeinfurtwangen@yahoo.com. If you know where a fantastic clock is, that you do not own... we will pay finders fees for any clock purchased through a referral.

A Black Forest King Gambrinus Drinking Automaton C.1870

2009-11-25T17:34:00.000-07:00

This next piece in our collection is another Black Forest complex automaton. This clock was made C. 1870, and has a 8 day movement, with both time and animation trains.

The case on this piece is beautiful with walnut veneer and extensive brass inlay. The dial bears the retailers name “Mitchell” located in Tombrige, England just outside of London.

On the top of the clock is a large carved figure of King Gambrinus (The legendary King and patron saint of beer)! He is fully painted and retains his original finish.

The king is fully automated with movement to his eyes, mouth, arm holding chalice, the wrist of the arm holding the large beer, the shoulder of the arm holding the large beer.

Every 10 minutes, or on demand, he goes through the following automation sequence:

The Left shoulder is raised moving the large beer over the Chalice. The wrist tips to pour a drink.
The arm holding the beer is lowered to a resting position… there is a pause.
The right arm holding the Chalice is raised to the mouth.
The eyes drop and mouth opens to accept the beverage.
The chalice is lowered as the mouth closes and eyes return to look forward.

This is repeated twice (two drinks) per sequence.

The king drinker is one of the most complex of Black Forest Automations and one of the hardest to locate.

We were lucky enough to find this example in the UK, based on a referral through our website… (We will pay finders fees for referrals for any clock we add to our collection)!

A deal was struck to bring him home.

It was owned by a Clock collector in the UK for over 50 years, until it made its way to our collection.

Upon its arrival it was sent in to a Art conservator who very carefully cleaned years of grime caused by coal fires… revealing its original finish!

We are not only fortunate to have a BF King Drinker, but what we believe one of the most original untouched examples.

This last photo shows King Gambrinus,among his complex figural automaton subjects in Black Forest USA!

Best,

Justin

A Overview of a Emilian Wehrle Rooster Clock

2009-10-05T16:43:00.000-06:00

We have created a short two minute video to show and explain the inner workings of an Emilian Wehrle Rooster Clock. The Rooster clock was produced in very low numbers, and very few survived. We hope you enjoy this look into this special piece.

It truly makes one appreciate the innovation of Emilain Wehrle.

A Basic Overview: A Emilian Wehrle Trumpeter Clock Movement

2009-10-04T19:14:00.000-06:00

We always get emails from people asking, How does it work?

So... We decided to do some videos of our clocks inner workings and give a basic overview.

We hope you will enjoy this opportunity to take a peek into some seldom seen clocks, and leave with a better appreciation of Black Forest Horology.

We will try our best to add a new "how does it work video" each week.

This first video is of an Emilian Wehrle Trumpeter clock movement.

Emilian Wehrle made some fantastic musical clocks in Furtwangen Germany in the mid to late 19th C.

This movement is much larger and more substantial than it looks in the video.

The brass plates are the size of a yellow page phone book.It takes allot of power to generate the needed air pressure.

Best,

Justin

Knodelfresser in Action!

2009-10-04T15:55:00.000-06:00

This is a short 1 minute video that shows the Black Forest Dumpling Eater in action.

Please also look at an earlier post made to the blog for lots of photos of the clocks and a detailed write up...and other videos of Black Forest Automa.

A Unique Wehrle Musical Clock RESTORED!

2009-09-20T18:29:00.000-06:00

We just finished the restoration on a Unique musical clock by Emilian Wehrle. We do not use the word Unique lightly. You can read the post we did on the clock with the photos in a earlier post on our blog. You can hear it play below.

Another Rare Beha #119

2009-03-23T21:06:00.000-06:00

The case style of this Beha is done in a very traditional “Postman’s Alarm” style. But clearly it is not your normal Black Forest postman's alarm. A life size 12” cuckoo bird is perched on top of a oak branch that extends out of the top of the dial. This cuckoo is fully automated on the full and ½ hours.

This cuckoo strikes on a large grapefruit size bronze bell with a silvered hammer, a very unique touch to the cuckoo call that sounds more like a English tall case strike than anything out of the Black Forest.

The highly polished pendulum, has alternating steel and brass rods, giving it a look of a compensation pendulum as ones used on fine precision clocks.

The movement in this clock is a large wood plate cuckoo movement, two train. The strike and the cuckoo are on the same train like most cuckoo clocks. (see an earlier post for our other “Maxi” Beha cuckoo with a unique striking system). Obviously this movement does not have the cuckoo perch mechanics as a cuckoo is not pushed out of a door… but has a large additional arm that lifts a wire that activates the bird with the call.

The pipes on this cuckoo are large and round, not square but are turned on a lathe. They create a cuckoo call that is so real. This same style of pipes are also on our other Beha cuckoo with life size bird that can be viewed in an earlier post.

This clock has a night shut off so the strike and cuckoo can be silenced at night… this can be activated by pulling the silvered knob that extends out of the bottom of the case.

On the back Board is a fantastic Beha Label. Above the label is No 119 hand written. We have a scan of a early and rare Beha catalog that shows this clock. (Thank you to Dr. Schneider once again for his assistance with the documentation on this clock)

We know of another similar example that is in a collection in Germany. This other example is also a #119 but done in a walnut case (ours is Oak). This other example is documented in the Book, “Auf Der Hohe” on pg 137. This example was presented at the wedding of Johann Baptist Behas daughter, Leopoldine Beha and Andreas Nobs in 1887.

The dial is lettered AN LB to commemorate the bride and groom and their special occasion.

While our example is not the “wedding clock” it is the same model, and a very difficult Beha to locate. (In fact it is the only #119 we have ever seen come to the market)

Put A Penny In The Slot Em. Wehrle & Cie.

2009-03-19T21:42:00.000-06:00

This next piece is one of the rarest in the collection. First I will describe the clock and its functions, then speak of its history. This special order Musical Flute Clock was made by Emilian Wehrle during the last quarter of the 19th C. The architectural case is a style # 28 in the 1898 Em. Wehrle and Co. Catalog (see pic below). This case was available in both Oak or Walnut. This example was made in Walnut.

The dial is silvered with a brass high polish locking bezel with glass. The hands on this piece are fantastic silvered hands with cherubs spreading their wings. These hands are the identical hands Wehrle also used on the #33 “Scheffel-Uhr”… Wehrle most elaborate and expensive clock.

The Clock movement is a large robust brass movement that will run for 8 days on a single winding. The musical function of the clock is a two tune 8 pipe organ. As the organ plays a large flute player comes out behind the doors. After the Organ is finished playing, a large 6 tune music box is activated in the base… and plays one of 6 airs, that change with every activation. The music box fills the whole base of this flute clock.

A note worth mentioning, the model # 33 is the only other known Wehrle clock to have a music box. The #33 has a music box that only plays 4 airs and is smaller.

The last feature of this clock is Coin-Operation. On the top of the pediment is a brass plaque in a wood frame that reads “Put A Penny In The Slot Em. Wehrle & Cie.”

When a English Penny is deposited into the brass slot on the upper Right of the case.. The coin activates the organ where one of two tunes is played, followed by one of Six Airs on the music box.

After the music box is finished the Penny is deposited into a locking coin box, that is accessed with a key on the bottom Right of the case.

The side doors on this piece are also locking to keep people out of the mechanism.

This is the only known Wehrle in existence to have a coin operated feature, and it is 100% factory.

Now onto the history:

Camerer Kuss & Co (Later Camerer Cuss & Co.) Were one of the largest Retailers for Emilian Wehrle, Johann Baptist Beha and many other fine clock makers during the 19th C in the UK.

In each of the Camerer Cuss retail outlets, a different coin-operated clock was displayed on the counter. This Wehrle coin operated flute clock with music box was displayed in their Edinburgh, Scotland store.

Out of the three locations two of these clocks have been located. (Edinburgh & London)
The Glasgow clock is still missing…

The London retail outlet had a Beha #932 (Large gothic shelf cuckoo with Angelus striking and Monk automation, this clock also had a large music box in the base and of course coin operation.)

Beha records show this Beha was sold to Camerer and Cuss with coin operation in 1882 for 152 Gold Mark (98 for the clock, 52 for the musical movement and 2 for the coin-op mechanism) This was a very large price for a Beha. It should also be noted that although this clock looks like a #932 in everyway, Beha did not assign it this model # because it was not a normal production clock with the coin mechanism. Unfortunately the Wehrle records were either not recorded or preserved, so information on the price and details of the Kuss flute clock will remain unknown. What we do know is the clock was very expensive, and clearly a special made piece… and very well may be the only coin-operated Wehrle in ever produced.

It is quite amazing to think of the thousands of people who “Put A Penny In The Slot” while visiting the shop when these clocks were sold as new. We welcome comments on this clock, and are happy to be able to share this piece with you.

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Mark Singleton and Dr. Wilhelm Schneider for their assistance with these Coin-operated Cuss Clocks.

A Early Black Forest Soldier Automaton

2009-03-10T14:17:00.000-06:00

This early Black Forest soldier Automaton is one of the favorite shield clocks in our collection. This clock shows a more primitive style of Black Forest Clock making…and was made in a time before the mass production of the large factories. It was made by a true clock maker, in the Black Forest that took pride in his work.
The soldier automaton is a favorite done by the Black Forest clockmakers. While most of these soldier clocks seen today are incorporated into the shelf cuckoo (and made C. 1880-1900)… These early shield variety were made a generation or two earlier, and in much fewer numbers …and are difficult to locate today.
This Automaton was made C. 1820. It has a early wood plate, wood spindle movement.. The movement has Time, Strike & Automation. The two trains on this clock are front to back. The clock is in fantastic condition for its age, the soildier cannon...normaly missing or replaced are period. This clock is very pleasing to the eye. While most automated clocks the automation is hooked up to the strike train...where the automation is viewed every hour… the soldier is one of the few where the automation is connected to the time train. This creates constant action that can be seen as the pendulum swings.
On this piece the Soldier marches in front of the mansion, guarding the palace with his gun. When he reaches the turret on the right hand side, he quickly turns around…and begins his march in the other direction. He then marches back across the front of the clock to the cannon on the left…were he spins again. This is repeated over and over as the clock ticks.
This clock was located in Holland. We had is serviced in Europe prior to sending it back to the USA.. It is all cleaned…and working as it did when it was made... nearly 200 years ago.

A Early Rope Drive Shield Cuckoo

2009-03-09T12:46:00.000-06:00

The Next piece in the collection is a more primitive style of cuckoo clock.
Before the cuckoo bird was placed inside a case, cuckoo clocks were made in a more primitive style. This shield cuckoo, is a great example of a early Black Forest cuckoo clock. This cuckoo was made in the first quarter of the 19th C.

The movement has both wood plates and wood arbors. This movement also predates the use of chains, and is rope drive.

The whole cuckoo perch mechanism is also made from wood, this movement was a transition piece from the earlier wood wheel cuckoo movements made prior to 1800.
Note the early style bird, and bellow pipes located on the top of the movement.
This example shown is in original condition and has not been restored…dust and all.
Around 1845 the first cuckoo movement was put into a case, and the modern cuckoo clock was born.

A carved Black Forest Musical 8 day Regulator with Upright Disk

2009-03-05T21:05:00.000-07:00

This Black Forest carved musical regulator was made C 1880. The clock is unsigned and the maker is unknown.
The carvings are done well, and are all walnut. The clock has a nice motif of two full relief mountain goats on a rock ledge, overlooking the clock. The movement in this piece is a large brass plate, 8 day, musical movement. The gears in this movement are very robust. The bottom Gears on this musical clock that engage the musical disk are 3/8” thick and hand cut. The movement in this clock is a musical movement, with a clock incorporated. This large movement has a large double butterfly that extends out the top, this butterfly regulates the speed at which it turns a large upright disk…as well as all the drive gears and cam wheels to start and stop the music. As the large gear on the bottom of the movement rotates the musical disk that is mounted to a cast iron bedplate across the musical combs… the tune...“ Long Long Ago” fills the room. The carved front door creates a lattice for the music to escape into the room, and was done well. The upright disk is silvered, meaning it was always intended to be seen. While many musical clocks will activate a separate musical movement or music box, the clock works in this piece is the musical movement and provides everything needed…that along with the upright disk is a sign of a high quality piece. While the clock appears in every way to be a production piece, we have never seen another, or found anyone that has either. Most likely it was a piece made as a pre production run, or in very low production by a company that never went into full production.
It is a nice unusual musical clock that we enjoy having as part of our collection.

The Restoration of a Emilian Wehrle Trumpeter

2009-02-23T20:20:00.000-07:00

The Wehrle trumpeter that was added to the collection a few weeks ago is back to its original Glory!

This weekend I sat down and finished the musical restoration...after 19 hours of work...it has paid off.

The chest was gone through 100%. All the old paper was removed on the bottom, exposing the air channels... they were cleaned and new hand grained paper was added to reseal them tight.

All the valves were stripped and redone with new leathers from Colombia Organ Leathers. These valves include the two in the bellows, the two for the main pressure chamber and well as the 8 pallet valves.

The old gaskets were stripped off and replaced with new leathers.

New skins were also done on the bellows.

One of the 8 Reeds was not firing off properly, with a re-adjustment to the tongue this problem was addressed.

After the chest was complete and reassembled and tested it was placed back on the movement...

I adjusted the lift levers, music wheel position and and the spring tension (springs on bellow tops)

I dont think this clock played any better when it left the factory in Furtwangen, Germany in the 1880's.

I have put together a 4 minute video to better showcase this clock.

I will be adding the 9 pipe flute clock made by Emilian Wehrle we have in the collection in the next few weeks.

Enjoy,

Justin

A Early Black Forest Sorg Augenwender

2009-02-17T19:44:00.001-07:00

The last clock that was just posted was a miniature Augenwender, with Jockele movement.

This next piece is even smaller and earlier! This Sorg Augenwender was made in the first half of the 19th C.

The movement in this clock is a “Sorg” just 3.5” high including a 1” bell. If you do not count the bell the movement is 2.5” from top to bottom. It can easily fit into the palm of your hand.

This movement is Time, Strike, Alarm and Automation. The movement is not only a wood plate movement, but it also has wood arbors…and the trains are front to back.

Although unsigned, it patterned after Clocks made by Joseph Sorg. (see previous post of Sorguhr for more info)

The painting of Zinc is of a noble man. The painting is 4.5” wide X 5.5” high. The dial is only 1.75 inches.

Although most Sorguhren were done in the traditional shield style (as can be seen in a clock shown earlier)… Sorg movement were cased in a wide variety of cases.

The movement range from Time only, Time and Alarm, Time and Strike, Time Strike and Alarm… some even have automation as well, as can be seen in this example.

I look forward to sharing other BF miniatures out of the collection in the not to distant future.

Best,

Justin

A Miniature Jockele Augenwender Picture Clock

2009-02-17T18:44:00.001-07:00

One of the biggest differences between European and American Black Forest Clock collectors is the understanding/appreciation of the early Black Forest miniatures. In Europe these pieces are highly coveted and pursued. There are many books and information pertaining to not only the clocks, but also their makers.
In the United States little is known, sadly because of this many of these clocks have made there way back to collections and museums in Europe.

This piece is a miniature Augenwender (blinking eye) automaton was made C 1855. As the pendulum swings back and forth, the eyes look left to right. The outside dimensions of the brass frame on this piece is 9 x 9.5. The movement in the case is miniature…and is classified as a Jockele by collectors based on the movements dimensions (3.5 H, 3 W, 1.5 D). The trains on this movement are side to side (Time and Strike). It was made slightly later than most Jockele, and in the “new” style…most Jockele movements have the trains front to back.

The painting of a primitive woman is 5”X 6” and done on zinc. The clock dial is 2” and has an early style set of thick steel hands.

This identical clock was published in Ortenburgers, "Black Forest Clocks" on pg 37 BL. At the time it was published (it was owned by another collector)... there was no designation that it is a miniature... which reiterates my previous comment on the lack of information/interest on BF miniatures in the US. The fact of the matter is you will find 1000 Black Forest Augenwenders to every one Jockele or Sorg Augenwender.

It was also apart of a large display on the Subject of Black Forest Clocks in Pasadena , Ca in 2004. The clocks in the Display were published into a publication titled, "Black Forest Cottage Crafted Clocks 1800-1900" This publication was done in a very limited run and only available at the display.

We have included two scans of the documentation on this rare clock. Notice the quarter on the clock in the publication photo, it shows how small this piece really is!

Most Jockele were made in the traditional style, with a porcelain shield about 5” high… but like their smaller brother the Sorguhr…were made in a wide variety of cases with and without automation.

Jockele made prior to 1860 is much harder to find, as they were made in the “cottage craft“ industry... previous to the large ramp up of mass production and factories that swept through the Black Forest changing the clock industry forever.

C. 1890 Antique 5' Black Forest Hunter Musical Cuckoo Clock

2009-02-17T17:26:00.000-07:00

This Clock is one of the largest carved clocks in our collection. At just a touch under 60 inches from the bottom of the carved game bag, to the tip of the stag's antler... this clock commands attention in any room.

While these large carved hunter cuckoo clocks can be found, to find one of this quality, and this early is very difficult. This is NOT a vintage piece! This clock was made in the black forest in the later 1880's... The movement in this piece is just massive. The plates of this robust movement are cast and held together with pins. The cuckoo bird is large and plump and sits on a wood perch. The detail in the carving is unreal... look at the thin carved ropes that hand the pheasent and the hare... no expense was spared on the construction of this BF monster.

The music box in this clock is one of the largest we have ever seen in a Wall cuckoo clock. This massive 5 tune box has a 2" cylinder and the bead platge is just shy of 8"!!!

This clock was in a very high end Black Forest Clock collection in Southern California. We purcahsed the whole collection of 24 clocks, just to obtain this piece.

It currently hangs over the fireplace in our entry of Black Forest USA!

If you have a passion for Black Forest Clocks... we are always interested in meeting other collectors. Feel free to send us an email anytime madeinfurtwangen@yahoo.com

Another Complex Black Forest Automaton

2009-02-17T09:20:00.000-07:00

This Knodelfresser or Dumpling Eater C. 1870, is a great example of Black Forest Figurenuhren. Seated on the top of the case, on a grassy hill, is a figure of a man, holding a plate of dumplings. Every fifteen minutes, or on demand… he eats three dumplings.
He is animated in his eyes, mouth, arm, and of course the dumpling that passes into his mouth. Although one of the most common forms of figural automation made in the Black Forest(Dumpling Eater, King Drinker, Magician, Sewing Lady, Knife Sharpener, Shaving Monkey to name a few examples). Today any example is difficult to find.

The way this figure works is quite simple, yet when in action it is nothing short of amazing (There is a link towards the bottom of this page, where you can see him in basic action.):

On the back of the clock movement there is a wood spool. When the automation sequence is activated, this spool makes one revolution.

The wood carved figure seated on the top of the clock is hollow. The "hump" in his back is removed to reveal another spool located inside the figure. This spool is 1/3 the size of the larger spool that is driven off the clock movement. This spool is pinned in different places to controll the eyes, and the mouth. There is also a thin steel wire that extends from the spool. On the end of this wire is a small wood carved "dumpling".

A string is ran taunt through the grooves in both spools...through a passage between the figure and the top of the case. When the large spool on the movement makes one revolution, the small spool in the figure makes three...With each revolution of the small spool in the figure, the dumpling travels out of the plate in his hand and up a small notch in the figures chest. While it apears that the fork is raising the dumpling to the mouth, it is actualy the dumpling that is raising the fork!

As the dumpling aproches the mouth, the eyes roll down to look at the treat...and the mouth opens... the dumpling passes into the mouth, and the arm holding the fork is released and falls back to the plate... The mouth closes and "chews" the dumpling several times with movements to the eyes... (controlled by a set of pins carfuly placed on the spool in the right position).

During this time the spool has rotated and placed the dumpling back to the start place at the bottom opening...and the process repeats itself again. This happens three times in total, as the large wheel on the back of the movement will make on compleate revolution.

It should be noted that in the German language a "knodel" is a dumpling… and to “fress” is to eat… but not in a human way. Dogs “fress” and Pigs “fress”, but people do not. Another way them Germans, once again use there animated clocks to poke fun at other people or cultures.
The Rat eater displayed further down on this site, is a excellent example of this mockery.

This particular clock was displayed in 2004 at the Pasadena NAWCC Regional, in a large display on the subject of Black Forest Clocks. The clocks that were included in this display were featured in a publication produced to document both the display and the clocks. The book is titled " Black Forest Collage Crafted Clocks 1800-1900". We are including a scan of this clock and its documentation. The GLAR committee put together a website documenting the display, which can be viewed along with the autoamation by clicking this link: http://www.nawcc-glar.com/exhibits/2004exhib/16/16.html

For those interested in learing more about Animated Black Forest Clocks:
One of the best books on the subject is , “Figurenuhren aus dem Schwarzwald” by Herbert Juttmann (168 pg). This text covers many of the animated clocks made in the Black Forest. Juttmann not only has color photos on each piece, but has taken the time to break down the clocks into simple drawings, showing how each piece works. This book although published only in German, because of the drawings and simple, charts, it is still a usable asset for all. This book is available from amazon.de as well as the NAWCC lending library (http://www.nawcc.org/).

Best,
Justin

A Unique Cuckoo and Quail

2009-02-15T19:54:00.001-07:00

This next piece is a very unique triple fusee shelf clock ,with an exposed cuckoo and quail.

This clock is large at 30” high X 22” wide X 8” deep. The walnut veneered case on this clock is interesting as it was constructed with lots of curves. The motif is eye appealing, with roses and vines below and birds and a nest on top.

Perched on the top of the clock is an oversize cuckoo and quail. These bird are about 2x the girth of a mans thumb and 5.5 inches from beak to tail.

The movement is a Brass plate triple fusee movement at over 9” wide it is made in the highest quality. This movement will run for 8 days.

The plates and gears in this clock are as robust as a Wehrle 8 day triple wind trumpeter movement. This clock was built to last.
Little is known about the history of this piece. Despite being privately held in the same collection for over 20 years until recently.

Still this clock is well recognized by Black Forest Clock enthusiast worldwide.

This is because in 1991 it was published in Rick Ortenburgers book, Black Forest Clocks (The most comprehensive Black Forest book ever published in English). This documentation was done with a full page write up in color (pg 40).

As a side note:
In another collection in the United States there is similar clock.

The case is identical in every way but ½ the size of this piece. The movement is a 50 hr wood plate movement… with an exposed cuckoo only. This other clock without question was made by Johann Baptist Beha.

The maker of this piece, has been identified as Samuel Kammerer of Furtwangen, due to several distinct features on the movement. He was also responsible for making the large three train brass movements used in Emilian Wehrle's musical clocks.

The size of this clock is truly deceiving. I have included a photo of the clock being held... to show the size of this piece.

Also it should be noted we are not aware of another shelf cuckoo anywhere with both an exposed cuckoo and quail.

If anyone has any information on another we would love to hear from you.

Best,

Justin

A Beha and an Influential Piece of Black Forest Horology

2009-02-15T11:47:00.000-07:00

Next up in the collection is a very early, and special shelf clock with automation made by Johann Baptist Beha in 1849.
First off we would like to thank Dr. Wilhelm Schneider of Germany for his assistance in researching this piece. Dr. Schneider ,besides being the authority on the Beha factory… is also a accomplished author and a good friend.

This early Beha was made in late 1849, and sold January 1850 to Mr. Spiengelhalder a dealer from Neukirch for 19 Gulden along with one other identical piece. This is the only know surviving piece currently known out of the two. The Spiengelhalder family operated a retail store out of London during that time. As a side not worth mentioning...Johann Baptist set up his shop in Eisenbach in 1845, this clock was made within the first 4 years of the start of his business.)

The case on this piece was made by Peter Wehrle a case maker in Dittishausen. Peter Wehrle apprenticed in Vienna…building cases for fine Vienna Regulators. This explains why this case is very refined compared with many Black Forest clocks made during the period. It also closly resembles a fine Viennese shelf clock. The case is made from the finest veneers and brass inlay… the proportions also show Peter Wehrle had a well trained eye. Peter Wehrle’s early relationship helped Johann Baptist Beha secure his name and reputation as a quality BF clock maker.
The backboard on this case is hinged at the bottom, and has a locking mechanism at the top of the back board. This was done by Peter Wehrle prior to 1854.

The movement on this clock is an early woodplate 8 day double fusee movement…if you look at the stop wheel on the back of the movement (see pic)… it is a very primitive/experimental style… This movement predated Johann Baptist Behas integration of the fusee and cuckoo (one of Behas many innovations)… and a movement that would become the staple in his quality clocks in later years.

In the Beha books, Johann Baptist Beha talks about experimenting with the 8 day fusee movement…but first incorporating blinking eyes. This is one of those pieces.

Above the dial in a small gilt frame, behind glass is a small 1.75 X 3.25 painting on zinc. In the painting a dog has cornered a rodent. The eye on both animals (no larger than the end of a pin head needle) move back and forth with the pendulum.

Rarley did the Beha factory ever mark their clocks, and to find a Beha factory lable is considered unique.

The last detail on this piece that makes the package so sweet… is a clear signature “Johann Beha in Eisenbach” done by his own hand.

Since this clock was made within the first few years of Johann Baptist Beha's clock making career, and the importiance this piece played in the early development of the 8 day fusee movement, the documentation in the Beha books regarding this piece being one of the first, and the Signiture... it is safe to say that this clock was made not only by the Beha factory, but by the hand of Johann Baptist Beha himself.

We are very excited to be able to share this important piece of Beha history.

Best,
Justin

A True Joseph Sorg "Sorguhr"

2009-02-15T09:56:00.001-07:00

Measuring in at only 3.25 inches from the bottom of the movement to the top of the bell, this clock is the smallest in the collection.
This miniature that can easily fit into the palm of your hand is called a “Sorguhr”.
This term refers to miniature clocks patterned after those made by their inventor Joseph Sorg of Neustadt (1807-1872).
Joseph Sorg was not only a important clock maker during the first half of the 19th C., but also severed as the Mayor of Neustadt during the early 1850’s.
The styles of Sorguhren produced was varied. They were made in picture frame style cases..many with hammered brass frames (with or without automation), Biedermeier cases, and the more common shield style with wood or brass faces. There are also known examples cased in miniature granfather style cases no more than 20" high.

The example shown here is in the most traditional style. The round enamel dial…with the hammered brass crest. This example shows an eagle representing war… grasping arrows.

While we own several Sorguren in the collection (and will share them in future posts) this one is special.

This Sorg was made and signed by the inventor himself we have owned nearly a dozen Sorguhren over the years…and all are very collectible, but this is the only example we have owned that has been a true Sorg.

Joseph Sorg, although the inventor was responsible for just a very small fraction of all the Sorguhren produced. A Sorg that is made Joseph Sorg himself , is of no comparison in rarity or value to other unsigned examples. …as well as other examples signed by the many other makers of miniature clocks that followed his lead.

The example in our collection was made by Jospeh Sorg, in Neustadt C. 1850. This example has wood arbors, and is rope drive. The movement has both the time as well as the alarm functions.
The movement measures 2.5 High (without bell) 3.25 inc. Bell 1.75 Wide 1.25 Deep
The clock is signed on the small gear that is located the front of the movement . “J. Sorg” (see pic).
We look forward to sharing other examples of Early BF miniatures in the future.
Best,

Justin

The King Of Carved Wehrle Trumpeters

2009-02-14T15:10:00.000-07:00

This next clock is one of the favorite in our collection. It is a shelf Trumpeter Clock by Emilian Wehrle C. 1880. This clock is 44” high and 31” wide at the base and weighs over 70 pounds. The clock has the large triple wind (Time strike and music) movement (The largest Wehrle made). The clock runs for 8 days. On the hour or demand a pair of trumpeter figures appear through the carved doors…and this clock plays the William Tell Overture on 8 horns.

The carvings on this clock are done in solid walnut. There is no veneers or linden in sight…even the box used to construct the case is solid walnut. This clock is carved from head to toe… if fact there is not a single inch on this case that is not fully carved.

The top of the Roof is carved in a shingle pattern, very similar to a fine Beha shelf cuckoo…Even the underside of the roof is carved in shingles (we have not seen this done before !) The box of the case is carved all the way around to look like a tree… the sides of the case from base to roof, as well as the whole front.The large side doors are carved oak leaves and acorns to create a silk backed lattice for the music to fill the room… even the latches that lock these doors shut are carved from walnut!

The base of the clock wraps around the case to cover both sides solid. On many Wehrles the clock is put up on carved legs… but this example is different.

Rocks, trees, leaves as well as flowers cover the bottom sides… there is a one piece tree at the back intergrated into the base on both sides that has “grown” all the way to the roof line of the case… with leaves and vines pushing out in both directions… this gives the case a very nice 3-D effect against the wall.The front carvings on the clock peak for themselves.

The two pheasants are done very well… with the large spread wing eagle …just a fraction of a second from swooping down to pick up his lunch. The dial on this clock does not dissapoint… The dial, bezel and cartouches are carved from a single piece with abundant detail… the full dial center is carved out leaving small bunches of flowers no larger than the tip of your smallest finger…No expense was spared in the creation of this piece.

We have consulted with several Wehrle experts, and it is clear this was a custom carved clock…for someone that clearly loved carving... and had money to purcahse the finer things of life.

While we are aware of other beautiful Wehrle trumpeters a few inches larger… or with more massive carvings in front… it is the details on this piece (Case, Roof , Sidedoors etc. etc. etc.) that set it apart from all others.

We are confident that this is the most detailed carved Wehrle trumpeter that has been located as of today... but we would love to be shown otherwise!!!

We are offering a spot on our Blog to the owner of any other Wehele trumpeter that can take this title!

We are activly looking for the #33 Scheffel-Uhr (Wehrles top of the line arcitectual clock) to complement this piece in the collection.

Until then...we are happy to have the "King of Carved Wehrle's".

Best,

Justin

Beha Shelf Cuckoo With Carl Heine Oil Painting

2009-02-13T17:27:00.001-07:00

This Beha cuckoo was made C. 1870 in Eisenbach, Schwarzwald. The typical wood plate 8 day double fusee movement is housed in a beautiful round top elongated walnut case. The case is intricately done with fruit wood inlays of oak leaves and acorns both on the base and well at the top. The cuckoo door is also inlaid with flowers and leaves. What makes this Beha special is it is a Shelf cuckoo with a full oil painting on zinc or tin. While Beha frequently used paintings on his cuckoo clocks, this was rarely done on the shelf or table examples...and they are seldom found. The painting on the clock is well done. It shows a mother and child on the ground..quietly looking up into the tree at the cuckoo up in the branches. The mother pointing to the cuckoo. This painting was painted by the well known Black Forest painter Carl Heine, of Neustadt (1842-1882). Carl Heine's work almost always includes the tree with the bending trunk, and cuckoo up in the branches. The subjects eyes always gaze up at the bird... and frequently pointing to the bird... as on this clock. The book IN DIE NEUE ZEIT (which covers clocks and influential people from the Titisee/Neustadt region in the Black Forest) has several pages devoted to Carl Heine... his life, his work, and many of his paintings.

Black Forest Figurenuhren & The Rat Eater

2009-02-13T13:05:00.000-07:00

This next piece has only been in our collection for a very short time... but carries with it Provenance, that goes back to the collection of the late Charles Terwilliger in the 1960's... and many publications throughout the past half century. It is one of our favorites and quite possibly one of the rarest in the collection. In fact is currently the only known example worldwide. While mechanically identical to a dumpling eater or Knodelfresser (also in the collection), like most things the small details and variations make all the difference.

We call it the Rat Eater.

Seated on top of the clock is a carved and painted wood figure of a French soldier. In his arms he holds a plate of Rats. Every 5 minutes or on demand he "eats" 3 rodents!

There is automation to the eyes, mouth, arm holding the fork, as well as rat that is passed through his mouth and chewed.

To fully appreciate this piece we recommend watching the video we have loaded for your viewing pleasure.

It should be noted that the Germans frequently used automa to mock other cultures. This can be seen in many different pieces (Turks, Indians, Russians), and nothing can dispute the long tension between Germans and the French... and what can be more insulting than eating rats!

While research is still underway on this piece, it is believed that the figure is actually a Napoleon Soldier, possibly Napoleon Bonaparte himself... there are several documented cases in history where he encountered plagues of rats. And during sieges it was common for his soldiers to eat them to stay alive.

On the top of the figures hat is a gilt crowned eagle a common symbol used in the Napoleon Era in France. Although this clock was made C 1870 years after the Napoleon era... the Franco-Prussian war in the 1870's may have rekindled some of the previous passions (and there are also several documented cases were people were forced to eat rats. during the Franco-Prussian war...see scan of Rat peddler painted in 1870)

Below I will post several photos and scans of information and documents on the subject that were posted on the NAWCC message board in early 2009 discussing this piece.

This very special clock has been documented in Books and publications (3) during the past 30 years (Most notable is Black Forest Clocks by Rick Ortenburger) ...and also displayed in a National Convention in 1986 dedicated to Black Forest Clocks.

I hope you enjoy this piece.

Black Forest Automa "Schnappuhr"

2009-02-13T12:44:00.002-07:00

“The most curious branch of art is, without exception, the manufacturers of automation clocks and the ingenuity of the Germans has produced some wonderful mechanical clocks.” As quoted in “The Watchmaker and Jeweler” June 1875 issue.

Truly a work of art, this early Black Forest shield automaton brings smiles to faces both young and old.

This clock has survived the years well and remains in original untouched condition... complete with original paint, pendulum and side doors.

This piece has a wood plate, wood arbor movement.

The trains of the movement are positioned front to back. This movement is driven by Ropes, and predates the use of chains.

As the pendulum swings back and forth, they eyes look left to right, constantly scanning the room...as it has done for almost 200 years.

The clock strikes the hours and half hour on a bell located on the top of the movement.

The figures mouth opens and snaps shut with every blow.

This is a great example of early 19C Black Forest Automa.

Emilian Wehrle Rooster Clock

2009-02-13T08:51:00.000-07:00

This next clock in the collection is a Emilian Wehrle Rooster clock. Also known as a "Hahnen-Uhr" in German. The Wehrle Rooster awakes on the hour, or on demand...with three loud distinct calls. Cock-A-Doodle-Do!!!

While Emilian Wehrle was not the inventor of the Rooster clock... he was the first to perfect it. He created a apparatus that mimics the call of the Rooster without horns or air. Instead Wehrle used a serrated wheel that rides a small reed. This friction in variable pressures and speeds created a correct Rooster call.

He was issued a patent in 1884 for his design (Apparat Fur Schallerzeugung #32141). Production started shortly after this date. Because of their high cost, and the loud and obnoxious call of the Rooster every hour they were not an immediate success.

By Emilian Wehrles death in 1896 very few were made, and fewer have survived.

The Rooster clock is one of the Rarest clocks ever produced by Wehrle. We are honored to have one in our collection.

The example shown here is a 8 day shelf clock in a wonderful walnut case with matching bracket. This clock was retailed by Camerer, Kuss & Co. in England.
Because of the awful noise it produces every hour, we do not regularly run this piece... but we are happy to have it in the collection.

Best,

Justin

Emilian Wehrle Singing Bird Clock

2009-02-12T08:18:00.001-07:00

This next Clock in the collection is a C. 1874 Singing Bird Clock (Singvogeluhr) made by Emilian Wehrle of Furtwangen.
The fully feathered bird is 6.5 inches from beak to tail. It is fully automated in his beak, head, and tail. Perched on the top of the clock on a carved vase of fruit and leaves it is clearly visible and looks alive.

The carvings on this clock are all done in Walnut, and the style of the case is very unique.

This clock utilizes a robust brass plate movement, with large double pumping bellow system mounted above the clock works (very similar to his Trumpeter and Flute Clocks.)

The clock movement generates it own air pressure... and by opening and closing a valve... air in moved through a large flute with a plunger.

A cam wheel on the back operates the valve and the plunger to reproduce the sound of the song bird... while controlling the bird and the Automation. The Beak runs in perfect sequence with the large song bird looks and sounds alive!

This clock is featured in Emilian Wehrles 1874 Catalog as No. 1 (see illustration). It has a cost of 180 Marks in 1874. Just to put this into perspective a very nice Beha cuckoo could be had for 25 marks.

Very few of these Singing Bird Clocks were made, even fewer survived. Making them almost impossible to locate today.

I am not aware of a museum worldwide that has a example of a Em. Wehrle Singing Bird Clock, although there are a few in private collections.

This unique clock was also published in the 2008 edition of Schwarzwalduhren, by Berthold Schaaf (The authoritative text on Black Forest Clocks, and available through amazon.de and all German Booksellers)

Johann Baptist Beha Cuckoo With Life Size Bird

2009-02-11T22:45:00.000-07:00

Johann Baptist Beha was one of the most influential...and now famous clock makers to have ever lived in the Black Forest. Today his clocks are prized among collectors and museums . Johann Baptist Beha was a quality clock maker in Eisenbach, Germany ...during the mid to later part of the 19th C. His clocks were made of the highest quality, and were expensive. While other clocks makers would cut quality in order to compete based on price in a more competitive global market... Beha never gave in. He continued to produce a quality clock, and sold them to people who could afford them.

This piece is a very special Beha cuckoo, and one of only a small handful known like it worldwide.
The quality and detail of the carving on this piece is nothing but the best, typical of Beha. The vines are very delicately done. They wrap over and under each other with amazing detail...two small birds sit on the sides of the clock look alive... but that is not what makes this clock so special.
This clock has a life size cuckoo perched on the top of the clock... He is 12" from beak to tail, and fully automated!

You can see on this piece there is no cuckoo door.The movement in this clock is also unique. It is a three train movement. Time, Strike, and Cuckoo. While other cuckoo clocks blend the cuckoo call and the strike (cuckoo-bong, cuckoo-bong) the separation of trains allows this clock to strike the hour... pause then call the hour with the cuckoo.

This piece will also strike the half and full hour, but the cuckoo only calls the full hour.

If you look at the side view of the clock you can see that there is a large grapefruit size bell located on the top of the clock. This large bell creates a very loud distinct strike.

Last but not least the pipes used in this cuckoo clock are not square, but round. Turned on a lathe these cuckoo pipes produce a very real call.

This Beha has been documented in several horological publications over the years. Its most notable publication is the 2008 Edition of Schwarzwalduhren, by Berthold Schaaf. This is the most authoritative text on Black Forest Clocks.The book is available through any German book seller or Amazon.de

Johann Baptist was not only a quality maker, but a pioneer in Black Forest Horology these unique innovations can be seen in this very special Beha timepiece.

Best,

Justin