Beyer Clock and Watch Museum Zurich
Discover the fascinating history of timekeeping at Zurich's Beyer Clock and Watch Museum, a hidden gem showcasing centuries of horological innovation.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal
Beyer Clock and Watch Museum Zurich
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the fascinating history of timekeeping at Zurich's Beyer Clock and Watch Museum, a hidden gem showcasing centuries of horological innovation.
"A must-see for watch enthusiasts, offering a chronological journey through timekeeping history."
✨ Free Entry with Watch Purchase
Buying a watch from the Beyer store often includes free museum tickets. :ticket:
📱 iPad for English Info
Use the provided iPad for translations of German descriptions. :iphone:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Chronological Journey Through Time
Main Exhibition Hall
Trace the evolution of timekeeping from ancient sundials to intricate modern watches.

The 'Mysterious Watch' by Cartier
Special Display Case
Marvel at this unique timepiece with its captivating transparent dial.

First Zurich Church Watch
Historical Clocks Section
See a functional piece of Zurich's horological history.

World's Smallest Pendulum Watch
Miniature Timepieces Display
Be amazed by the incredible craftsmanship of this tiny, yet functional, watch.
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Insider Tips
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✨ Free Entry with Watch Purchase
Buying a watch from the Beyer store often includes free museum tickets.
:ticket:📱 iPad for English Info
Use the provided iPad for translations of German descriptions.
:iphone:🕰️ Chronological Layout
The exhibition is organized by time, making it easy to follow the history of clocks.
🧥 Coat Check Available
There are lockers and hangers for coats, making your visit comfortable.
Tips
from all over the internet
✨ Free Entry with Watch Purchase
Buying a watch from the Beyer store often includes free museum tickets.
:ticket:📱 iPad for English Info
Use the provided iPad for translations of German descriptions.
:iphone:🕰️ Chronological Layout
The exhibition is organized by time, making it easy to follow the history of clocks.
🧥 Coat Check Available
There are lockers and hangers for coats, making your visit comfortable.
🎁 Souvenirs for Sale
Check out the counter for unique souvenirs related to timekeeping.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are pleasantly surprised by the Beyer Clock and Watch Museum, finding it a small but packed collection showcasing the evolution of timekeeping. The chronological display and unique exhibits like the 'mysterious watch' are highlights, with staff often providing helpful insights. While the German-only descriptions are a minor drawback, the provided iPads offer a good solution.
"I was pleasantly surprised with this museum. I was bypassing and decided to check it. The museum is rather small but is still packed with interesting watches. The exposition is organized in a chronological order, so you can track down the development of the watches. There are some interesting watches such as the “mysterious Watch” by Cartier with transparent dial, first Zurich church watch that is still functional, the smallest pendulum watch in the world, fully wooden watch, etc. Thanks to Mrs. Alexandra Hutter and Mr. Thierry Jaquemet who were very kind and welcoming and answered all my questions about this exposition and even gave a brief tour and description of some of the most interesting watches. The only thing that can worth an improvement is the German-only printed descriptions of the exhibition. English-speaking people are provided with an IPad where you can search for the item you are interested in, but considering the number of non German-speaking people, it would be great to also have printed descriptions in English as well."
Valentina Gorobets
"Pretty neat! There was a kind watch person who gave us some limey sorbet whilst we waited for some people to exit the museum. 10/10 a classy establishment."
Liam McEneaney
"A must see for watch enthusiasts when you are in Zurich. The museum is really dedicated to the history of time keeping across the ages including sundials, candle clocks and other clever designs to track the passage of time. We bought tickets online in advance but you should be able to just walk in as there is no timed entry. Be sure to check for closures due to holidays."
Kurt Delimon
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is conveniently located on Bahnhofstrasse, a main street in Zurich. You can easily reach it by public transport, including trams and buses that stop nearby. Many visitors also find it accessible by walking from other central Zurich attractions.
Yes, it's situated on Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world's most exclusive shopping streets, and is close to the Old Town (Altstadt) and Lindenhof hill.
While the Zurich Card offers free public transport and museum access, it's best to confirm if the Beyer Clock and Watch Museum is included in its benefits, as it's a private museum.
Parking in central Zurich can be challenging and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transportation to reach the museum.
Walking is a great way to explore Zurich's city center, including the area around the Beyer Clock and Watch Museum. You can also utilize the efficient public transport system.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The standard admission fee is 10 Swiss francs for adults. However, purchasing a watch from the Beyer store may grant you free entry to the museum.
While booking online in advance is an option, there is usually no timed entry, so you can often walk in. It's advisable to check for any holiday closures.
As mentioned, purchasing a watch from the Beyer shop can lead to free museum tickets. It's worth inquiring about any other potential discounts when you visit.
The museum's hours generally align with the watch shop's operating times. It's recommended to check their official website for the most up-to-date information, especially regarding holidays.
The Beyer Clock and Watch Museum is a private museum and may not be covered by the Zurich Card. It's best to verify this directly with the museum or Zurich Card provider.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum is relatively small and can typically be explored in about 30-60 minutes, depending on your interest level.
While the museum focuses on historical timepieces, the visual appeal of intricate watches and unique designs might engage older children. The Zoological Museum is a more explicitly child-friendly free option nearby.
While formal guided tours might not be standard, some visitors have reported receiving brief, informal tours and descriptions from staff members, especially if they show keen interest.
The primary language for exhibit descriptions is German. However, an iPad is provided to visitors for translations, allowing you to access information in English.
Yes, the museum offers coat hangers and lockers for visitors, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum is located on Bahnhofstrasse, which is lined with numerous cafes, restaurants, and high-end dining options. You'll find plenty of choices for a meal or a coffee break nearby.
While not a full cafe, some visitors have mentioned receiving small refreshments like sorbet while visiting, indicating a focus on hospitality.
While Bahnhofstrasse is known for luxury, exploring side streets or smaller bakeries can offer more affordable options for snacks and light meals.
You can find pleasant spots for a picnic in Zurich's parks, such as Platzspitz Park, which is a short walk or tram ride away.
Zurich offers a wide range of culinary experiences, from traditional Swiss fondue and raclette to international gourmet dining.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography is permitted for personal use, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions posted within the museum.
Focus on the unique timepieces, especially the 'mysterious watch' and historical clocks. The intricate details and craftsmanship make for excellent close-up shots.
Flash photography is often discouraged in museums to protect delicate artifacts. Please be mindful of this and avoid using flash.
Bahnhofstrasse itself offers great street photography opportunities, especially during festive seasons. The Old Town and Lindenhof hill also provide picturesque backdrops.
If you're considering a purchase, taking photos of specific watches might be acceptable, but it's polite to ask the staff first.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When exploring the city center, the Polybahn funicular offers a short, exciting ride with great views, and it's often included with the Zurich Card, making it a budget-friendly adventure. Many of Zurich's parks, like Platzspitz, provide open spaces for children to run around and enjoy. Remember that Zurich can be an expensive city, so leveraging free attractions and public transport passes like the Zurich Card can help manage costs for family outings.
⌚ Watch Enthusiasts
Beyond the Beyer museum, Switzerland is the heartland of watchmaking. Consider visiting other renowned watch museums like the Patek Philippe Museum in Geneva or the Omega Museum in Biel/Bienne. Many luxury watch brands also have their own boutiques and museums in cities like Zurich, Geneva, and La Chaux-de-Fonds, offering a chance to see iconic timepieces up close.
💰 Budget Travelers
Leveraging the Zurich Card can be a smart investment, providing unlimited public transport and free or discounted entry to many museums and attractions. For free museum experiences, the Zoological Museum is a great option. Packing your own snacks or utilizing bakeries and smaller cafes can help save on food costs compared to upscale restaurants on Bahnhofstrasse.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art and Science of Timekeeping
One of the museum's standout features is its chronological organization. This allows visitors to easily follow the development of timekeeping technology, understanding the context and innovations behind each piece. You'll encounter unique items such as the first functional Zurich church watch, a fully wooden watch, and the world's smallest pendulum watch, each telling a story of its time. The museum also highlights significant pieces like the 'mysterious watch' by Cartier, demonstrating the blend of art and engineering.
For those interested in the practicalities of visiting, the museum is located in the basement of the Beyer watch shop on Bahnhofstrasse. While exhibit descriptions are primarily in German, an iPad is provided for English translations, ensuring accessibility for international visitors. The staff are often noted for their kindness and willingness to share insights, sometimes even offering brief tours or refreshments, adding a personal touch to the experience.
Navigating Zurich's Prestigious Bahnhofstrasse
For visitors looking to combine their museum visit with other activities, Bahnhofstrasse is perfectly situated. It's a short walk from Zurich's Old Town (Altstadt), offering a contrast between modern luxury and historic charm. You can easily transition from admiring intricate timepieces to exploring medieval streets, picturesque squares, and iconic churches like the Grossmünster.
While Bahnhofstrasse is synonymous with high prices, there are ways to experience its allure without breaking the bank. Many visitors enjoy window shopping, people-watching, or grabbing a coffee at one of the many cafes. For those on a budget, exploring the side streets off Bahnhofstrasse can reveal more affordable eateries and unique shops.
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