This permanent exhibition explores the phenomenon of time through a chronological display of timekeeping devices. It showcases the evolution of the watchmaking industry from ancient technologies like sundials and water clocks to intricate mechanical clocks and modern electronic and atomic timepieces. The exhibition highlights significant examples of historical tower clocks, interior clocks, and pocket watches, alongside domestic Czech watchmaking efforts.
The permanent exhibition 'Measurement of time' delves into the concept of time from diverse perspectives, tracing the development of timekeeping technologies through a chronologically arranged selection of exhibits. Visitors will encounter early time-measuring devices such as sundials, water clocks, fire clocks, and hourglasses, progressing through mechanical clocks that dominated watchmaking for centuries, and finally to electronic clocks. A central focus is the meticulously curated collection of mechanical clocks, representing significant historical timekeeping from the early 14th century to the mid-20th century. This collection includes historical tower clocks, interior clocks, and pocket watches. The exhibition also features devices utilizing electricity for time measurement, hybrid mechanical-electrical timepieces, and rare experimental pieces like the first Czechoslovak atomic clocks.
Significant attention is given to the history of watchmaking in the Czech lands, with its documented origins dating back to the Luxembourg dynasty. The exhibition details successful efforts during the 19th century to align with contemporary advancements, notably highlighting the contributions of Josef Božek and Josef Kosko. Furthermore, the technological aspects of watch production are explored through a rich display of hand-made watchmaking tools, templates, and instruments, offering insight into the craftsmanship involved.