600 clocks spring forward this weekend at Waterford's Museum of Time  

As the clocks move forward by one hour at 1am on Sunday, March 30, 2025, a dedicated team of staff and volunteers at The Irish Museum of Time will be busy preparing to adjust over 600 clocks, marking the start of daylight saving time.

This bi-annual tradition requires careful attention and precision, as each timepiece must be meticulously reset.

Cliona Purcell, Curator at Waterford Treasures Museums, emphasised the complexity of the task.

"Along with the oldest Irish clocks, our museum also houses pieces from around the world, so changing the time on all of these precious historic items is no small feat. The process of adjusting the time is slow and methodical. 

"Only two people work on the clocks at any given time, as each piece has its particular quirks. Some of these clocks, for example, are eight-day clocks, which means they only need to be wound once a week. As a result, about 25 clocks will have already been wound and reset in advance.

"The task is not only one of technical skill, but also of patience and care, as the clocks must be treated with the utmost attention to detail. Each piece has its own set of characteristics, and many of them require a delicate hand to wind them properly."

The Irish Museum of Time is home to a collection of over 1,000 timepieces and horological artefacts, each reflecting Ireland’s rich history in clock-making.

The museum’s collection spans centuries, showcasing a diverse array of timepieces, including turret clocks that once adorned the steeples of churches, and a remarkable display of 10 grandfather clocks that chart the evolution of Irish clock-making from the 17th to the early 20th centuries. 

These objects are displayed alongside pieces from across the globe, demonstrating the breadth of horological craftsmanship. Visitors to the museum can view clocks from around the world.