The Musée d’horlogerie du Locle
Once owned by the wife of Jacques Nardin (1892-1950), a member of the Le Locle family of chronometer makers, is one of the most charming horological visits that can be made in the Canton of Neuchatel.
The inauguration of the Watch Museum of Le Locle took place on May 23, 1959 at the Château des Monts.
The museum is small compared to the La Chaux-de-Fonds International Watchmaking Museum a few miles away and lesser-known. But the building and grounds as much as the collection is worth a visit.
The museum mixes period rooms, a collection of Neuchatel clocks as well as walk through time.
There are technical insights into watchmaking history touching on different escapements amongst many elements developed during history.
Additional exhibits include both watch and large automators.
An early automator, repeating, enamel pocket watch from the 19th century.
The walking lady…
Early astrolabium clocks and modern equivalents.
Summary
“On a less horological level, I visited the museum with my ten-year daughter who thoroughly enjoyed the visit both inside and out. The visit was short, but interesting, diverse and the staff welcoming. The museum catered both to father and daughter. After the visit, we sat down in the very beautiful grounds and ate our homemade picnic. Although Le Locle looks less attractive from the high street, when you climb to a higher vantage point it is quite beautiful, and the buildings which were built during its early glory days stand high and proud.” PS
A view of Le Locle from outside of the museum.
To learn more about the Musée d’horlogerie du Locle