Black Forest Clock with Apostle Automata C. 1890

This Apostle clock was made by the firm Gordian Hettich Sohn in Furtwangen, Germany C. 1890-1900.

The case is just under 3 feet high, and constructed in the from of a cathedral. On the hour the double doors open and the 12 apostles parade from the right tower, across the balcony, and into the door on the left tower. Each apostle is carrying a different item item in high hands. The last of the twelve is holding a sack of coins leaving little to doubt who he is.

As the automata is in action the movement strikes three large coiled gongs in repetition... signifying the Angelus or call to prayer.

The automata can also be activated manually, and there is a night shut off to silence the automata and the strike.