Bern Zytglogge Tower Astronomical Clock

nitediver · 2016-08-27T07:25:49Z

Explore Bern's Zytglogge tower and its historic 15th-century astronomical clock. Nitediver shares photos and insights into this horological marvel.

nitediver

WPS member · Horological Meandering forum

25 replies2489 views11 photos

Nitediver takes readers on a captivating tour of Bern's historic Zytglogge tower, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring an astronomical clock dating back to the 15th century. His post beautifully captures the intricate details and historical significance of this horological marvel, complemented by his personal Girard-Perregaux Vintage 1945 Triple Date.

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Yesterday I met a few friends in Bern where we attended a guided tour of the historic Zytglogge tower. ( an Unesco world heritage site)

With me my GP vintage 1945 triple date.

Here is the front of the tower with the astronomical clock.

There is an excellent description of the tower and clock on Wikipedia, so I will not go into details but repost photos of the various clock faces for reference ( photo credit Wikipedia )

Hour striker (Jacquemart)

Following are my own pictures from the inside of the tower and the clock, which dates back to the early 15th century but had been updated and modified since then.

The majority of the clock dates back to 1530

The view on top is phantastic

A last view of the clock with God chronos sitting on the right side between a roster and a lion ( both chronos and the rooster move when the clock strikes the hours)

It was s great afternoon in Bern and I am still amazed how our ancestors were able to create astronomical clicks some 500 years ago,

Best

Stefan

Key Points from the Discussion

The Zytglogge tower's automatons are a highlight for visitors, and the clock's ancient technology and enduring functionality are truly remarkable.
The longevity and continued function of such a complex, centuries-old mechanism are astounding, contrasting sharply with the durability of modern products.
The Zytglogge clock's complex astronomical complications demonstrate advanced engineering for its time, inspiring awe at ancestral craftsmanship.
Bern's historic charm and the Zytglogge clock's wonder evoke thoughts of historical figures like Einstein contemplating time in its streets.
The Girard-Perregaux Vintage 1945 Triple Date is noted as a perfect companion for such a historical horological exploration.
The Zytglogge clock's prestige and complexity suggest a historical drive for horological advancement in Western Switzerland.

The Discussion

amanico

Aug 27, 2016

Thanks, Stefan! Is there any chance some of you are in Geneva, Sunday 4th of September?

I will spend the night there, before going to the JLC Manuf. Let me know! Nicolas

nitediver

Aug 27, 2016

Would love to join, but i am on a business trip touring half the world the next two weeks

Actually I will be in Adelaide next Sunday. Thanks for letting me know, one day we will make it Stefan

amanico

Aug 27, 2016

Too bad! Next time, for sure. [nt]

nitediver

Aug 27, 2016

YouTube link

Link to YouTube video of the tower striking the hours. You have to be patient to see the whole video sequence Stefan

descartes1

Aug 27, 2016

Awesome post!

Bern is gorgeous, and that clock is a wonder. I imagine Einstein strolling those streets and considering the mysteries of time, space and the universe. My father spent 5 years as a medical student in Bern and I was thrilled to see it. Thanks for the post.

nitediver

Aug 27, 2016

Thanks for your comment!

Interesting to read that your father spent 5 years in Bern. Nice town indeed, especially on a wonderful summer day where everybody is out in the street and in good mood. Stefan

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