The comical cuckoo clock seems to come straight from the minds of our inner child. Its flapping and chirping delight many generations today even as in times gone by. It is a design that never seems to age even in a modern era of stamped productions and sleek fashions.
It is generally thought that the cuckoo clock as we know it started in the Black Forest. This is a region in Germany that is still to this day rich in culture and skill of days gone by. Yep, the cuckoo clock is German! Many Americans believe that it is a Swiss design and it is popular there also, but it became famous in the Black Forest. Even before the Black Forest though there were versions of this charming little clock.
Some designs of singing clocks have been dated back into the sixteen hundreds and it is believed there are earlier clocks then these. These would have been few and far between though as clock making was still a developing and expensive craft. Early clocks were of a flat panel design with a painted face and of course two tiny doors for the ever crowing bird to sing his song from. Later versions of Black Forest clocks were intricately detailed to match the Victorian period styling of homes and furnishings.
In later years the Swiss came into the clock making trade with there own twist on the cuckoo clock. These seem to be the clocks of cartoons and tourist traps all over the world. It is a real shame that there glory has been somewhat faded by the popular culture of today. These clocks were made with loving details and meant to replicate the cottages of the Swiss homeland. As a matter of fact the Germans enjoyed them so much that they incorporated many of these design traits into there wall clocks. Even when they built some of the worlds largest cuckoo clocks they designed them as cottages of varying designs. The swiss also added the lovely feature of their music boxes. This must have brought happiness to many a home!
Modern versions of cuckoo clocks are quickly stamped and cheaply built for the most part. Sadly even these versions have mostly been left for the tourist traps of the world. These clocks are still as quirky as they always have been though and sure to bring a smile to ones face. If you are looking for a statement of individuality look no further then the Cuckoo Clock!
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