Marcus Tempus
A spectacular traditional Black Forest cuckoo clock, richly carved and full of character. Crafted from wood, this elaborate chalet scene is framed by tall fir trees and features an extraordinary level of detail, from the bell tower above to the woodland animals and figures gathered below.
At the heart of the clock is an 8-day mechanical movement, requiring winding only once a week. On the hour, the traditional cuckoo is accompanied by a musical display, with the figures coming to life to create the wonderfully theatrical experience for which traditional Black Forest clocks are loved.
The case incorporates 36 individual wooden figures, including a wooden bird, alongside a moving mill wheel and additional automaton features. Hand-painted details bring colour to the otherwise richly carved wooden construction.
At approximately 76 cm high and 30 cm wide, this is very much a statement clock — an exceptional decorative piece as well as a traditional mechanical timekeeper.
This is cuckoo-clock theatre at its best. There is something to discover almost everywhere you look — the carved trees, tiny windows, animals, figures, mill wheel and wonderful bell tower all combine to make it feel like a miniature Black Forest world rather than simply a clock. And with an 8-day movement, it combines all that character with the convenience of weekly winding.
Marcus Tempus · Masters of Time
Few clocks have as much personality as a traditional Black Forest cuckoo clock. Timekeeping, carving, sound and movement come together in an object designed not simply to tell the time, but to become part of the home.
HEKAS has handmade cuckoo clocks in Schonach since 1938, continuing a clockmaking tradition rooted in Germany's Black Forest.
Keep the clock dry and away from strong heat, damp and prolonged direct sunlight. Dust carved surfaces gently and never apply household oil to the movement.
Clockmaking developed into an important Black Forest craft centuries ago. HEKAS traces its own cuckoo clock production in Schonach to 1938. Today the company produces its clocks in the Black Forest, from traditional souvenir designs to highly detailed mechanical pieces.
A historic centre of Black Forest cuckoo clockmaking and the home of HEKAS.
Weights provide the power while a pendulum regulates the rate of the clock.
The familiar call is created mechanically, while selected clocks add music and animated scenes.
A mechanical clock can be maintained and serviced, allowing it to remain part of a home for generations.
HEKAS states that its genuine Black Forest cuckoo clocks carry the seal of the Black Forest Clock Association (VdS), guaranteeing Black Forest origin, quality and a traditional mechanical movement.
Designed to be wound by raising the weights approximately once each day.
Designed for a longer running period, with the weights typically raised approximately once a week.
Selected models combine the cuckoo mechanism with a mechanical musical movement and animated features.
The mechanical heart of the clock, controlling timekeeping and the strike sequence.
Produce the two notes that create the characteristic cuckoo call.
Provide the gravitational power that drives the clock and its complications.
Regulates the rate at which the clock runs.
Adds resonance and punctuation to the cuckoo call on traditional designs.
On selected models, dancers, waterwheels and other figures bring the clock to life.
Select a secure wall away from damp, strong heat and prolonged direct sunlight.
Use a fixing suitable for the wall and the combined weight of the clock and its hanging weights.
Carefully remove transport restraints and ensure the chains are free and untwisted.
Fit each weight to the correct chain hook in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
Hang the pendulum carefully from its suspension beneath the case.
Gently set the pendulum moving and listen for a steady, even beat.
A traditional mechanical cuckoo clock is made to be maintained, not discarded. Thoughtful everyday care and professional attention when required can help preserve its sound, movement and character for years to come.
Our clock workshop specialises in traditional mechanical clock care and restoration. From longcase and French clocks to Atmos clocks, musical boxes, dials and cases, our approach is careful, sympathetic and respectful of the character of each piece.
When your cuckoo clock eventually requires professional attention, speak to our workshop for assessment and advice.
Explore Our Clock Workshop →A 1-day clock is raised approximately daily; an 8-day movement has a much longer running period.
Check that the weights and chains are free, the pendulum can swing and the clock is hanging securely. Avoid forcing anything.
Small rate adjustments are normally made at the pendulum. Follow the instructions for your model or ask our workshop.
Many models provide a manual or automatic night shut-off, depending on the individual clock.
Do not force the hands or mechanism. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for your particular model.
Remove the weights and pendulum and secure the chains before moving the clock.
