Ankeruhr

The Anker Clock, a jewel of Art Nouveau, was built between 1911 and 1914 and is a bridge connecting two parts of the Helvetia Insurance Company’s building. This unique timepiece was designed by the painter and sculptor Franz Matsch, a close associate of Gustav Klimt. The Ankeruhr survived the turbulent times of the early 20th century, including World War I and II, and continues to function today, over a century after its creation. The clock is adorned with twelve historical figures or pairs of figures that rotate slowly around the display, ensuring a new figure appears each hour. Each figure is accompanied by a piece of music matching the individual associated with that hour. At noon, all twelve figures go through a complete rotation for around 15 minutes, attracting crowds of spectators.