Setting the Automatic Night Shut-Off on the Sternreiter Quartz Cuckoo (Model 40QM)
Our NEW Sternreiter quartz cuckoo features an upgraded movement with a built-in automatic night shut-off.
Earlier quartz models relied on a light sensor to disable the cuckoo call in darkness. The new 40QM model uses an internal timing mechanism instead. This means the clock must be properly synchronized to the correct day/night cycle before operation.
To ensure the night shut-off functions correctly, please follow the procedure below carefully.
Before Installing the Batteries
- Turn the minute hand clockwise until it points to 5:00 AM.
- Open the back cover and insert three (3) R14 batteries into the battery holder.
For best performance, use Duracell or a standard generic brand. We recommend avoiding Energizer batteries in this model. - Once installed, the clock will operate on the following schedule:
- 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM: The cuckoo calls the full hour on the hour.
- 10:00 PM – 5:00 AM: The automatic night shut-off is active, and the cuckoo and music will remain silent.
Proper sequencing ensures that the internal timer aligns with real-world time. If the batteries are installed without setting the clock to 5:00 AM first, the day/night cycle may be reversed.