The Musical Wonder of Zurich: The Carillon Kurz on Bahnhofstrasse

A carillon is a musical mechanism in a clock that plays melodies using a set of metal bells. Usually, the melody plays every hour, sometimes every quarter hour. This makes the clock not only functional but also decorative, filling the space with musical sounds.

Carillon Kurz and Its Features

Carillon Kurz refers to the renowned Austrian brand Schwarzwälder Uhrenfabrik Kurz (Kurz Clock Factory), specializing in the production of unique mechanical clocks, including wall and mantel clocks with musical mechanisms and figurines. These clocks have a long history and are popular due to their exquisite design, craftsmanship, and use of traditional technologies.

Kurz clocks are known for their unique features that attract buyers and make these clocks memorable. The main feature of Kurz clocks is the figurines. Many clock models are adorned with moving figurines that become active at certain moments, such as when the clock chimes. These can include dancing couples, pastoral scenes with animals or peasants, as well as knights, fairy tale characters, or mythological figures.

Kurz clocks are renowned for their excellent quality and craftsmanship, created using traditional German and Austrian clockmaking technologies that ensure durability and accuracy.

Kurz clocks are also highly decorative. The clock cases are often designed in Baroque, Rococo, or classic German folk art styles, featuring wood carvings, gilding, and hand-painted elements.

The clocks produced by the Kurz factory are very famous. They have become a symbol of the craftsmanship and cultural heritage of Central Europe, particularly in the Black Forest region. The melodies played by the clocks are often classical or traditional European tunes, while the figurines and scenes on the clocks are not just decorative but also animated elements that make the clocks unique.

The Uniqueness of Kurz Clocks

These clocks combine functionality and art, serving as both timepieces and works of art. This makes them a perfect gift or collectible item.

Each clock design is unique, ranging from simple traditional styles to complex models with numerous moving elements.

Kurz clocks convey a sense of old-world charm, transporting their owners to an era when mechanical devices were crafted with soul rather than mass-produced.

Kurz clocks hold significant collectible value, especially antique or limited-edition pieces, which can be of great interest to collectors. They are an exquisite way to bring something historical and warm into your home.

Carillon Kurz on Bahnhofstrasse in Zurich

The Carillon Kurz on Bahnhofstrasse in Zurich is a famous clock with a carillon installed on the facade of the Kurz Schmuck und Uhren (Kurz Jewelry and Watches) store. It is one of the iconic attractions of this renowned Swiss street, symbolizing a blend of traditional craftsmanship and cultural significance. The carillon clock is mounted on the facade of the Kurz jewelry store, located on Bahnhofstrasse, one of Zurich’s most prestigious streets.

The Carillon Kurz is adorned with moving figurines that appear and "come to life" at specific hours, accompanied by melodies played on bells. The figurines depict scenes from traditional Swiss culture, such as characters in national costumes or elements of Alpine life. The mechanism is designed with Swiss clockmaking precision. The carillon plays melodies characteristic of Switzerland, including folk songs or classical motifs associated with cultural heritage.

The Carillon Kurz on Bahnhofstrasse attracts many tourists because of its fame and historical value. This clock is a symbol of Bahnhofstrasse and highlights the importance of preserving traditions even in the most modern places. Tourists and locals often gather around the store to enjoy the sight of the moving figurines and the melodies. The Carillon Kurz exemplifies precision, quality, and respect for tradition, perfectly matching Switzerland’s reputation in the field of clockmaking.

This is not just a clock but a real performance that comes alive every hour. The carillon sounds and the movement of the figurines create a festive atmosphere, even on the bustling shopping street. It is part of a unique Swiss cultural experience that can only be witnessed in Zurich. If you visit Bahnhofstrasse, don’t miss the chance to see this marvel of clockmaking art and listen to its melodies. It is one of those little things that make a trip to Zurich unforgettable.

The History of the Carillon Kurz on Bahnhofstrasse in Zurich

Many years ago, jeweler Armin Kurz (1924–1989), the founder and then-owner of Juwelier KURZ, had an idea of how to leave a lasting impression on clients and culture enthusiasts while bringing them a bit of joy every day. Inspired by the Zytglogge in Bern and the Rathaus-Glockenspiel in Munich, he wanted to give passersby a brief moment of pause and delight every day. The carillon became his gift to the city of Zurich and was inaugurated in 1982.

According to his vision, the KURZ store on Bahnhofstrasse would feature an impressive chime with moving figurines. The store's oriel was specifically designed for this purpose. In Mele, Armin Kurz found the only manufacturer of such large-scale carillons with figurine carousels. The figurines, handcrafted and painted, representing each Swiss canton, were created in a woodcarving workshop in Brienz. Only the canton of Jura is missing, as it joined Switzerland later as an independent canton.

Traditional figurines on the Carillon Kurz from each canton of Switzerland on Bahnhofstrasse in Zurich

The carillon was built with 32 bells operated by a punch card system. The card system connects to hammer-like strikers via cables, producing sounds reminiscent of tiny hammers. Later, it was decided to expand the melodies by adding lower tones, increasing the number of bells to 36, making the Carillon Kurz the largest of its kind in Switzerland.

The inauguration took place on Tuesday, September 21, 1982, precisely at 11:00 AM. The clock face is a replica of the clock face from St. Peter’s Church in Zurich, where Armin Kurz was baptized and confirmed.

Jojo invites you to enjoy the melodies of the Carillon Kurz in Zurich on Bahnhofstrasse and admire the unique traditional Swiss figurines.