Black Forest Automa "Schnappuhr"

“The most curious branch of art is, without exception, the manufacturers of automation clocks and the ingenuity of the Germans has produced some wonderful mechanical clocks.” As quoted in “The Watchmaker and Jeweler” June 1875 issue.

Truly a work of art, this early Black Forest shield automaton brings smiles to faces both young and old.

This clock has survived the years well and remains in original untouched condition... complete with original paint, pendulum and side doors.

This piece has a wood plate, wood arbor movement.

The trains of the movement are positioned front to back. This movement is driven by Ropes, and predates the use of chains.


As the pendulum swings back and forth, they eyes look left to right, constantly scanning the room...as it has done for almost 200 years.

The clock strikes the hours and half hour on a bell located on the top of the movement.

The figures mouth opens and snaps shut with every blow.

This is a great example of early 19C Black Forest Automa.