Would 600 clocks together drive you cuckoo?

As the clocks tick back this Sunday, October 26, a very significant chapter in horological history will move a step forward as final preparations continue for the unveiling in Waterford of the world's largest collection of Cuckoo Clocks.

The new exhibition, which will open in the coming weeks, will be located in a specially created wing of the Irish Museum of Time.

A spokesperson for the museum said the exhibition is currently receiving its final touches and once complete will add another landmark to Ireland’s only dedicated horological museum at Waterford Treasures.

The new wing, housed in a restored 19th-century building, is devoted to the celebrated craftsmanship of Germany’s Black Forest, where artistry and engineering combined to create the cuckoo clock, one of the world’s most recognisable and enchanting timepieces. 

The collection was acquired thanks to the generosity of the museum benefactor David Boles, whose vision has secured Waterford’s reputation as a centre for the appreciation of timekeeping. 

In 2024, the collection was acquired from Maz and Roman Piekarski, who were closing their cuckoo clock museum in Knutsford, near Manchester, having collected cuckoo clocks for over 50 years. David Boles also funded the restoration of the building and the exhibition fit-out.

The very imaginative display has been curated by Mr Boles with Colman Curran, co-founder of the Irish Museum of Time, who has spent many months in Waterford together with project manager Eamonn McEneaney preparing the clocks for the exhibition. 

The award-winning architect Rupert Maddock is the project architect.

To view a short video clip of one of the clocks working click here

Cuckoo clock making began in the Black Forest valleys of southwest Germany in the 18th century. Farming families turned to clockmaking during long winters, developing a unique style that incorporated intricate carvings and the familiar call of the cuckoo bird. Over time, the Black Forest became synonymous with these distinctive timepieces, which evolved into works of art admired across Europe and beyond.

Commenting on the exhibition and the history of the cuckoo clock, Mr Boles said: "For centuries, the dramatic landscapes of the Black Forest have inspired storytellers, writers, artists, musicians, and master clockmakers alike. Its flora and fauna, and sounds, not only captured imaginations but also shaped one of the most iconic forms of timekeeping in the world."

"This exhibition, the largest display of Black Forest cuckoo clocks ever assembled, offers a rare opportunity to explore how this enchanting region gave rise to timepieces that are both mechanical marvels and timeless works of art," said Mr Boles.

Once officially opened, visitors will encounter more than 400 extraordinary cuckoo clocks, many dating from the 19th century, when the craft reached its artistic and technical peak. Highlights include one, two and eight-day clocks, wall and table clocks, automaton pieces, quarter-striking clocks, oversized showpieces, and delicate miniatures. The carvings range from woodland scenes to elaborate architectural designs, each a testament to the imagination and skill of Black Forest artisans. Many of the clock cases have been treated under the direction of conservator Sven Habermann from Conservation Letterfrack.

Meanwhile the museum spokesperson said: "Among the curiosities is a century-old fairground organ, a spectacular mechanical wonder that captivates both the eye and the ear. The fairground organ will enthral both young and old alike and has been lovingly restored by two expert conservators, Alberic Godderis and Tim Thyssen from Belgium."

"Together, the display forms the most comprehensive exhibition of Black Forest cuckoo clocks on public view anywhere in the world," she said.

The Irish Museum of Time, in the heart of Waterford’s Viking Triangle, first opened in June 2021, as part of the Waterford Treasures suite of museums. It has since earned international recognition for its exceptional collection of Irish and European timepieces, from early 16th-century watches to exquisite 20th-century clocks. 

"With the addition of this new wing, the museum continues to celebrate the artistry and innovation of horology while strengthening Waterford’s position as a leading cultural destination," said the spokesperson.

"This weekend, as the clocks fall back by one hour, the staff at the museum will be changing the time on many of the timepieces and preparing for the museum’s expansion," she added.

Project manager, Eamonn McEneaney said: "The Irish Museum of Time is proud to honour the legendary mastery of Black Forest cuckoo clock makers. This new wing is unlike anything seen in Ireland before. The collection is not only a celebration of German artistry and craftsmanship, but also a joyful and imaginative addition to Waterford’s cultural offering."

The co-curator Colman Curran said: "We are enormously grateful to David Boles, whose generosity and passion have made this possible. Visitors will be astonished by the scale, variety, and charm of what awaits them. His vision and dedication ensure that our shared horological heritage will be preserved and appreciated for generations to come.” 

Once open, the extended Museum of Time promises a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the world’s most enchanting clocks in one place. Tickets and visitor information are available at www.waterfordtreasures.com.