A Closer look at a Black Forest Peddler Timepiece UHRENTRÄGER

In this post we want to share with you a little more information about a rare miniature clock produced in the Black Forest. There were many different types of miniatures made in the black Forest including the Sorg or Sorguhr, Jockele,and Scottenuhr. The clock peddler or Uhrentrager was also a form of miniature made C. 1850-60.

The clock peddler is a prominent symbol of the Black Forest clock industry. It is an image that is still used today. The history of the clock peddler goes back to the early Black Forest clock industry, where the farmers would produce clocks in the cold winter months. In the spring the young men would load them up on their back and travel to far aways places, selling the clocks.



In the mid 19Th C. the first Black Forest timepieces where made in the image of the clock peddler, these figures are dressed in the traditional Black Forest attire. The figure is made of sheet tin, hand formed into the likeness of the peddler. He stands on a linden wood base, which is then veneered in a fancy burl. The peddler stands anywhere from 15-16" high.



In his arms he holds a miniature working timepiece. This miniature clock is under 3" high and is fully functioning. The front shield has an enamel dial. A miniature pendulum swings below as the clock ticks. The movement is a quality thick brass plate movement with a silk thread suspension and will run for one day.

In his left hand he holds the pendulums for the clocks he carries to sell. On his back is another clock, this clock is a non functioning example. The dial on the clock on the back lifts to reveal a small space for holding the key that is used to wind the clock.



While these Black Forest miniatures have been produced from the mid 19C. up until modern times... the original period examples are extremely rare and collectible. A good clean example will easily bring thousands at auction.

We currently have two examples in our collection (although we will most likely end up holding on to just one of the two).



The photos of this example here is the newest addition to our collection,and is being shown as it arrived to us from Europe today. It is an extremely original example, that retains its original paint and all accessories.

We have put together a small you tube video on the uhrentrager, so you can see what a period example looks like up close (and inside).

We hope you enjoy this rare look at a special early Black Forest clock.