Beyer Clock and Watch Museum

Located on Zurich's famous Bahnhofstrasse, the Beyer Clock and Watch Museum is a hidden gem for horology enthusiasts. Housed in the basement of the Beyer watch shop, the museum displays over 300 years of timekeeping history, including rare pieces like early pendulum clocks, ornate pocket watches, and precision marine chronometers. The collection is curated by the Beyer family, who have been watchmakers since the 18th century. Visitors can admire intricate mechanisms, learn about the evolution of time measurement, and see unique items such as a 16th-century table clock. The museum offers a quiet, intimate setting away from the bustling street above, making it a perfect stop for those interested in craftsmanship and history.

Don't miss

• Antique sundials and early mechanical clocks from the 16th century
• A rare collection of enamel pocket watches with intricate artwork
• Marine chronometers used for navigation at sea
• Interactive displays explaining how different escapements work
• The 'Beyer Chronoscope', a unique clock showing multiple time zones

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Beyer Clock and Watch Museum

Cheapest way inFIFA Museum Tickets4.3★ · 89 travelers1-2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$33 per personSee dates →Most bookedZurich Sights: Cruise, Lindt Chocolate and optional FIFA Ticket4.2★ · 1,114 travelers~5 hoursFree cancellationFrom$95 per personSee dates →Private & flexiblePrivate, excellent guided tour Zurich just for your group5★ · 283 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$101 per personSee dates →

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Getting there

Know before you go

• Allow at least 1 hour to fully appreciate the exhibits.
• Photography is allowed without flash.
• Audio guides are available in multiple languages.
• The adjacent Beyer watch shop sells luxury timepieces, but no entry fee to the shop.

A bit of history

The Beyer family has been involved in watchmaking since 1760. The museum was established in 1971 by Theodor Beyer, a fifth-generation watchmaker, to share his private collection with the public. It is one of the few watch museums in Switzerland located in a working watch shop.