Kieninger Clocks Romba HOHENZOLLERN Waaghur Rock Weigh Driven Clock with Wooden Gears - 7640
Romba (Rombach & Haas) HOHENZOLLERN WAAGHUR Model 7640 is the exact reproduction of the 17th century clock as it was made during long winter months by Black Forest craftsmen with each gear meticulously carved by hand. In 1640s the “Waaguhr” was the very first mechanical clock that became affordable to the new middle class in Europe. However, it was not quite as sophisticated as the later clocks and allowed for only one hand indicating the hours. This was still a significant improvement. Until then, an average 17th Century individual measured time with only three times of day: sunrise, high noon, and sunset.
The mechanism of this clock is made entirely of wood and is powered by a roughly hewn rock from the Black Forest. This clock is interesting to watch as a moving decorative piece and makes for a wonderful conversation piece. You can guess the time fairly accurately even if the clock only points to the hours by estimating what the minutes would be from the position of the hand but of course, this is not the clock meant for accurate timekeeping.
- Dimensions: 7″ x 22″ x 5″
- Reproduction of an early 17th Century timepiece
- Wooden mechanism
- Powered by the weight of a real rock from the Black Forest
- Made in Germany
- VDS Official Black Forest Seal
- Romba Original
- Fast order processing and FREE ground shipping in the contiguous United States
What our Experts Think
Q&A
Q: What type of clock is the Rombach & Haas HOHENZOLLERN 7640?
A: It is a German-made Waaguhr (rock weight-driven) mechanical clock, faithfully reproducing an early 17th-century Black Forest timepiece with hand-crafted wooden gears.
Q: How is the clock powered?
A: The clock is powered by the weight of a real Black Forest rock, which drives its all-wood mechanical movement.
Q: Does the clock have wooden gears?
A: Yes. The entire mechanism is made of wooden gears, showcasing traditional Black Forest craftsmanship.
Q: Is this clock designed for precise timekeeping?
A: No. It features a single-hour hand and is intended as a historic reproduction and decorative conversation piece rather than a precision timekeeper.
Q: Is this an authentic Black Forest clock?
A: Yes. It is made in Germany by Rombach & Haas (Romba) and carries the Official VdS Black Forest certification.
Q: What makes this clock unique?
A: It reproduces one of Europe's earliest affordable mechanical clocks, featuring a verge and foliot escapement, exposed wooden mechanism, and rock-weight drive for an authentic historical display.
Maintenance Tips
- Raise the rock weight gently and avoid sudden drops or impacts.
- Keep the wooden gears clean and free from dust and debris.
- Place the clock on a stable, level surface away from vibrations.
- Avoid direct sunlight, high humidity, and extreme temperature changes.
- Do not apply oil or lubricant to the wooden gear mechanism.
- Ensure the rock weight and pendulum move freely without obstruction.
- Inspect wooden components periodically for signs of wear or cracking.
- Store and display the clock in a clean, dry environment to preserve the wood and movement
Damage 
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