Irish Museum of Time, Waterford

The Irish Museum of Time occupies a refurbished gothic-style church that provides a fitting setting for what is undoubtedly the world's finest collection of Irish timepieces. Serving as Ireland’s National Horological Museum, it proudly showcases a remarkable array of timekeeping devices, including some of the oldest Irish-made grandfather clocks, table clocks, and watches, dating back to the seventeenth century.

However, the museum encompasses a diverse array of early European timepieces, some of which hail from as far back as the mid-sixteenth century. Visitors can marvel at clocks and watches from various countries including Switzerland, England, Germany, France, Italy, Austria, the Netherlands, Russia, and even Japan.

Among the highlights of the collection is the groundbreaking William Clement clock from 1663, a pioneering example of innovative mechanism design that revolutionized accurate timepiece-making for generations to come. Additionally, the museum offers insight into the evolution of turret clocks, which emerged during the medieval period as some of Ireland’s earliest public timekeeping devices, housed in clock towers often found in church bell towers or purpose-built structures.

An engaging section of the exhibition titled ‘How it works’ provides an educational opportunity for both children and adults to explore the intricate mechanisms behind these timepieces, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the intersection of artistry and science in horology. One notable exhibit is a special clock dating back to 1764, adorned with the crest of the Portland family, indicative of its prestigious origins and historical significance.