
Verein die Schwarzwalduhr literally means "The Black Forest Clock Association". The association issues authenticity certification ( echtheitszertifikat) to members of the association. The Black Forest Clock Association (German: Verein die Schwarzwalduhr – VdS) is a syndicate that was set up in 1987 to protect traditional mechanical cuckoo clock making in the Black Forest region in Baden-Württemberg ( Germany). (Designed by artist Benno Gasche from Schonach). (In English: The Clockmakers of the High Black Forest and their Works).Left, early (1987-2006) & right, modern (post 2006) VDS seals on clocks originating from a manufacturer in the Black Forest Region registered with the syndicate.

Studies of Geography, History and Institutions) Veröffentlichungen des Alemannischen Instituts, 47, Freiburg im Breisgau, 4th edn., 1989.

Īt the beginning of the 20th century, the clock industry initially prospered but then collapsed as the First World War broke out and, subsequently, the Russian and American markets broke away. At the beginning of the 19th century, the Sorgs, a clockmaker family, produced a very small wall clock ( Sorg-Uhr). At the end of the 18th century, Jacob Herbstreith manufactured small wall clocks with plates in porcelain or brass ( Jockele-Uhr). They had wooden panels which were painted in lacquer ( Lack-Schilderuhr). Towards the end of the 18th century, plate clocks for the wall were produced. In the second half of the 18th century, technical progress led to winding wheels being produced in yellow brass. In the first half of the 18th century, wooden wheels were used in Black Forest clock manufacturing ( German: Holzräderuhr). Gradually Black Forest clocks gained in reputation especially the famous cuckoo clocks, which developed into their now typical style from around 1854.

It is said that, in the early days, Black Forest clocks were copied from the Bohemian style. The popularity of clocks from Black Forest grew, and plates and clock faces became more sophisticated. The first range of clocks were for practical use and of simple design. History Beginnings in the 17th century īlack Forest clock production began in the mid-17th century.

A specialized branch of Black Forest clockmakers are the manufacturers of cuckoo clocks. Craftsmanship of Black Forest clockmakers dates back to mid of the 17th century.
