Congreve's Rolling Ball Clock

General watch information including stories of movement and brand development, service information and watch/movement evolution.
Karrusel
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Congreve's Rolling Ball Clock

Post by Karrusel »

These fascinating timepieces first appeared in the 17th century when French inventor, Nicholas Grollier de Seviere designed & constructed an inclined plane clock.

In 1808, Sir William Congreve invented & patented an 'Oscillating Path Rolling Ball Clock'.
As he was not a clock maker he commissioned London clockmaker's, Gravell & Tolkein, to produce his first working model, which was presented to the then Prince of Wales.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Congreve_clock

Recently, I had the opportunity to help set up & regulate a model donated to The Coventry Watch Museum.
This model was made by a former engineer at Rolls Royce...


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Still work in progress... :D

This video pinched off tinternet shows how these wonderful (IMO) timepieces operate...


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1GDNV-eYaKU

Hope some of you find this interesting.

:thumbup:
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Amor Vincit Omnia
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Re: Congreve's Rolling Ball Clock

Post by Amor Vincit Omnia »

Wonderfully wacky and great fun. I have seen the British Museum model a few times.
Steve
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tempusmaximus
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Re: Congreve's Rolling Ball Clock

Post by tempusmaximus »

Absolutely fascinating . Thanks for posting Alan :)
Bernie
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