World of Watches: Museum dedicated to the life of P.M. Hahn will soon be opening in Kornwestheim!

World of Watches: Museum dedicated to the life of P.M. Hahn will soon be opening in Kornwestheim!

On June 1, 2025, the PHILIPP MATTHÄUS HAHN museum in Kornwestheim will open its doors for the first time from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. This new exhibit is located in the old rectory where the remarkable clockmaker and pastor Philipp Matthäus Hahn lived and worked from 1770 to 1781. Hahn is considered one of the most famous watchmakers in Europe and is known for his groundbreaking inventions that were created in Kornwestheim. A replica of his famous hydrostatic wine scale, also known as the Oechsle scale, has been on display in the museum since July 2023. Hahn's important works have been admired in the past by, among others, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, who was deeply impressed during a visit to Kornwestheim.

Hahn's calculating machine, which received imperial recommendation from Joseph II for all universities in the empire, was of particular importance. In addition to his work as a mechanic and engineer, Hahn also represented an important connection between theology and technology in his time. The museum will bring Hahn's work to life through originals and replicas, supplemented by anecdotes and short films. Admission is free, making the museum accessible to the general public.

Hahn's legacy and association to promote his life's work

Philipp Matthäus Hahn was not only an innovative watchmaker, but also an entrepreneur and important mechanic of the 18th century. An association dedicated to documenting and honoring Hahn's life's work was founded. The association has set itself the goal of recording Hahn's work in Kornwestheim in detail and shedding light on the theological trends and his mental attitude. The association will also collect literary and scientific exhibits by Hahn and his assistants and make them available to the public.

The contemporary historical context in which Hahn's works were created was characterized by a remarkable technological development. In the 18th century, when scientists such as John Harrison and George Graham made significant advances in watchmaking, the development of precise pendulum clocks and calculating machines was of great importance for time measurement. These innovations contributed significantly to a new era in mechanics, in which Hahn's inventions also left a lasting impression.

Hahn had prominent guests, including the Württemberg ducal family, Goethe and Duke Carl August of Weimar, all of whom appreciated his mechanical inventions. Through the museum and the association's activities, Hahn's legacy in Kornwestheim continues to be kept alive and his contribution to watchmaking and science is honored.

Those interested have the opportunity to make appointments to visit the museum or visit the exhibition during regular opening hours.