The iconic cuckoo call started appearing in clocks around this time and probably appeared in other mechanical products as well. But by the 1670’s that call was firmly associated with cuckoo clocks.
During the early rise of the clocks there were three famed makers:
- Franz Anton Ketterer
- Michael Dilger,
- Matthäus Hummel
It is widely believed these makers are responsible for the cuckoo’s clocks success during the early 1700’s. But the clocks that lined the walls of these maker’s shops were not the ones we picture today. They were varied and no signature “style” had yet emerged.
The cuckoo clock we picture today rose to fame in the 1800’s thanks to the success of the Bahnhäusle clock. This clock style showcases a house, just like the Chalet style clocks today.
However, early models featured a railway signalman’s house.
After this style rose in popularity, clocks with houses, carvings, and woodland scenes became the signature style of the kookoo.
Clock Production
Cuckoo clocks have always been handmade and hand carved by highly trained clockmakers.
Today, that is still the case.
Modern cuckoo clock makers are just as dedicated to their craft as the first makers from centuries ago.
Still today,
…cuckoo clocks produced in the Black Forest must meet the highest of quality standards.
Here are a few interesting facts about the way these intricate clocks are put together:
- Teamwork:
The clocks are handmade, but not by just one set of hands. Typically, an entire team works together to create the artful timepieces. Each person has their own set of skills.When the final clock is assembled all the details and mechanical parts must work in unison. - Years in the Making:
This is an interesting tidbit that most people don’t know. The wood that will eventually create the carvings for a cuckoo clock is actually selected years before the clock is made. That’s because Linden wood, the wood that is typically carved for cuckoos, must be cut and dry for years before it can be carved.Only the best cuts of wood that are perfectly dried will be selected for carvings. The carvings usually decorate the front part of the clock and the roof. Any figures that appear on the cuckoo clock are hand carved and painted, as well. - The Mechanics:
The last step of the process is creating the mechanical movements of the clock. Black Forest clockmakers build the mechanics right into to the clock. Things like clock hands, cuckoo bird, and any moving figurines all make of the mechanical components.
Modern Cuckoo Clocks
When most people picture the cuckoo clock of today they usually think of the carvings and the cuckoo call. Here are a few other things you should realize about the modern cuckoo clock:
- All Mechanical: Even today the inner workings of the Black Forest Cuckoo Clocks are controlled by weights and chains. From the bellows of the cuckoo call to the actual timed movement of the hands—no electricity is required.
- Quartz, battery operated clocks are available but are not considered authentic or traditional. However, they are a bit more affordable and still charming for any room of the house.
- Types: There are many types to choose from, Chalet and Carved are the most traditional “looking” but clocks, but cuckoo clocks can come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. There has been a modern revolution of sorts and the handmade clocks can now take many shapes! The more traditional designs still include woodland scenes, dancers, lumberjacks, revelers drinking beer, water mills turning, and styles of German music.
here is a cuckoo clock out there that will fit the taste and style of any home. Just make sure the quality is high and the traditions of the clockmakers are intact.
Linden Wood is a great material for carving cuckoo clocks
Linden wood is very popular among the German carving atmosphere. With Germany being popularly known as the cuckoo clock carvers of the world it is important that a person is informed about the history and background of the wood that cuckoo clocks are carved out of.
Lindenwood trees are also known as basswood. They are members of the Tilia Genus and are native to the eastern two-thirds of North America. Found throughout California due to its perfect climate. This species of tree is the most common species in California nurseries.
Credited to:https://cuckooforest.com/
