We choose only the best
But before a single component is selected, there is an idea. A sketch on paper. The inspiration for our watches comes from the history of the Black Forest, from our employees, from our customers—and above all from the nature and traditions of the region that surround us every day.
Only once the design is finalized do we begin selecting the right components. We work exclusively with long-standing partners in the Black Forest—specialists in cases, engraving, and movements who share our quality standards.
No part enters our workshop unless we have held it in our own hands and approved it.
It all comes down to the right connection
The mechanism—whether mechanical or electronic—provides the power. But what brings a cuckoo clock to life are the wires: they transmit every movement to the cuckoo, the musical mechanism, the dancers, the sawing wooden figure, the waterwheel—and much more.
These wires must be adjusted perfectly. If they’re too long, too short, or too tight, the cuckoo will come out on the hour but won’t go back into its little door. What looks simple from the outside requires the most precise craftsmanship and years of experience on the inside.
Our specialists know every wire, every connection, and every potential source of error—and make sure everything runs smoothly before the watch leaves our facility.
Movement meets case – A clock is born
The regulated movement is now securely installed in the case. In mechanical clocks, the pipes are added during this step—they produce the world-famous cuckoo call that has been instantly recognizable for generations. Clocks with dancing figures also include a musical mechanism: it makes the figures at the top of the clock dance on the hour.
In electronic movements, the cuckoo call, music, and all mechanical sequences are already built into the movement—the assembly is precise but more compact.
Once everything is in place, the cuckoo is positioned correctly, and all the connections are secure, the box is closed. The clock is ready for the next step.
The clock comes to life
Now the clock takes on its final form—and this is where the paths of the chalet and the carved clock diverge.
With our chalets, our finishing department prepares each wooden figure with meticulous care. Movable arms are attached, and the figures are painted with precise coats of varnish. Carriages are assembled—complete with horses and coachmen. Card players are dealt cards. Beer drinkers enjoy their freshly tapped beer. All these figures and many more are attached to the clock’s projections around the clock. Scene by scene, a lively scene takes shape: bustling activity in front of a town hall, a romantic Alpine inn, idyllic children at play. The clock becomes a stage.
In the case of carved clocks, the carvings—which have already been crafted and varnished—are given a final, delicate finish before being mounted on the case. At the very top sits the finial—usually a magnificent stag’s head or a beautiful bird. The panels on either side feature leaves, acorns, and artfully arranged animals. At the bottom hangs the pendulum—which will later set the clock’s calm, steady rhythm.
The journey begins
The finished clock is hung on the wall. First, the chains are attached to the distinctive pinecones—it is these that bring the mechanism to life and set the clock ticking.
1-day clocks are left to run for at least 24 hours, and 8-day clocks for at least 8 days. During this time, we observe: Is the clock running smoothly? Does the cuckoo appear at the right time? Does it return to its little door? Are the dancers moving, and is the waterwheel turning? Only when everything is just right is the clock ready. Electronic movements are tested for function and quality and can then be shipped immediately.
What you receive in the package is more than just a clock. Thanks to the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into each piece, every clock is one-of-a-kind—no two are exactly alike. With this clock, a piece of the Black Forest and its history travels to you—no matter where in the world you are.
Original Black Forest Cuckoo-Clock
Anton Schneider Söhne is a member of the "Verein die Schwarzwälder Uhr" (VdS) - the official seal of quality for authentic Black Forest cuckoo clocks. Only manufacturers who can demonstrate that they produce their clocks in the Black Forest and meet strict quality standards are permitted to bear this certification.
What this means for you: Every Anton Schneider clock is guaranteed to be an original. No imports, no replicas—genuine Black Forest craftsmanship bearing the seal trusted by connoisseurs and collectors worldwide.
