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Most of these are real splurges, and maybe the designs aren't quite as "timeless" as the classic German cuckoo clocks, but we love how playful they are. From left to right:

• 1 Unica Home carries a large selection of modern cuckoo clocks, most of them by Italian designers. This one, a silhouette of the classic cuckoo form, is by Pascal Tarabay of Diamantini Domeniconi. It comes in several colors and runs from $313 to $545, depending on the finish.

• 2 Another one from Diamantini Domeniconi... bright resin stripes frame a sweet little white bird. Around $250 from Rockett St. George.

• 3 This adorable little wood and steel birdhouse-shaped clock, also designed by Pascal Tarabay, is available in several colors from Snow Home (approximately $259).

• 4 For a more affordable take on the classic cuckoo, with a funky modern edge, try this one from Urban Outfitters for $48.

• 5 Reddish Studio bills this clock as a cross between the classic cuckoo and a digital wristwatch. It's a fun juxtaposition. (Contact the designers for more info.)