Posts Tagged ‘eight-day movements’
The word “Chalet” originates in Switzerland and describes a type of Alpine wooden hut that has been used for many years by sheep and goat herders. At the end of the nineteenth century the style of Chalet Cuckoo Clocks became very popular in Switzerland ,and they were highly prized by tourists who loved the Clocks as Swiss souvenirs.
Actually there are three basic chalet styles of Cuckoo Clocks, and two of them originate in the Swiss Alps. One is from the village of Brienz which is in the Canton of Bern, Switzerland. The other shape of chalet is Emmental which has a steep roof which has a large overhang that almost reaches to the ground. Yet another type of the chalet style is Bavarian and also has the steep roof and an overhang. The Bavarian Chalet is my favorite and by far the most popular model for the addition of a music box which plays melodies. Often the wooden case of the clock is decorated with carved leaves, birds and animal heads. On most Cuckoo Clocks the dial displays Roman numerals. Musical cuckoo clocks can be found with both one day movements and eight day movements.
More on eight day movements in my next article.
Today’s my birthday
Actually, it’s both my wife’s and my birthday. Isn’t that neat, married and able to celebrate our birthday together? I sure don’t have any excuse for forgetting Mona’s birthday! Normally we go away and celebrate by exploring new territory. Not today, but later this month we will be celebrating in Barcelona Spain. Previously we celebrated in Hawaii, Germany, Austria and most of the 50 United States. We love to travel. Today, being Wednesday, I will continue my “How To:” articles. Today, “How to buy Cuckoo Clocks”, one of my loves (besides by wife).
Cuckoo clocks are an enjoyable accessory to have in your home. Features to look for when buying a cuckoo clock include the style, movement and music. Once you have an idea of the type of cuckoo clock you’re looking for, then finding one for your home will be a cinch.
First – Decide on the style that you’re looking for in a cuckoo clock. If you’re looking for a clock that looks like a house, then you’ll want to purchase a chalet style clock. Traditional clocks include built in nature scenes with flowers, animals or leaves. Novelty clocks include more unique colorful features and contemporary themes. Second - Consider the type of movement that you would like your clock to have. Cuckoo clocks have two movements: one-day and eight-day movement. One day movements will sound on every half hour and on the hour. 8 day cuckoo clocks sound on each hour of the day. Third – Determine whether you want your cuckoo clock to play music. Some coo coo clocks come with music and figures that dance while others do not. Some traditional clocks play Swiss music at either every half hour or by the hour. The music will depend on the type of movement and clock style you choose. Lastly - Browse shops that offer the types of cuckoo clocks that you’re looking for. Cuckoo clocks can be purchased online, at retail stores, auctions, and antique or thrift shops.

Kissing Lovers
Happy shopping, and “thanks” for celebrating with us.
