World's largest collection of cuckoo clocks opening in Waterford this month

The largest collection of cuckoo clocks in the world is opening at The Irish Museum of Time in Waterford city later this month.

The museum has been temporarily closed lately to facilitate the construction of a brand new gallery to display hundreds of clocks, many dating from the nineteenth century when cuckoo clock design reached its artistic peak.

On display will be a selection of historic clocks, including one, two and eight-day clocks, automaton clocks, miniature clocks, elaborate showpieces, and intricately carved woodland scenes.

Among the highlights is a rare century-old fairground organ, a mechanical marvel

Together, the display represents the most comprehensive public exhibition of Black Forest cuckoo clocks anywhere in the world.

The name 'Black Forest', represents the birth of cuckoo clock making, which began in the forested valleys of southwest Germany in the 18th century, where skilled woodcarvers and clockmakers combined artistry and engineering to create one of the world’s most recognisable and enchanting timepieces. 

Over time, the Black Forest became synonymous with the cuckoo clock, and its master craftsmen elevated these clocks into prized works of art.

The launch of the new space at the Irish Museum of Time takes place on March 28.

Tickets are available at waterfordtreasuresbookings.com