Georgian

The measurement of time

The measurement of time took on enormous importance during the eighteeenth century.

People moving from cottage industries to the new manufactories found they were working regular hours marked by the factory clock.

Britain ruled the waves with its successful merchant shipping and strong navy. It became very important to pin point a ship's position at sea to save time and money. John Harrison 's fertile mind came up with the solution in the form of a chronometer. Amongst other innovations, it was mounted so that it could take the sway of the ship and not be affected in the same way as a normal pendulum clock.

Jewel bearings began to be used in the workings of clocks from about 1700, and small watches, as we know them, came in about 1750.

Look at the picture. What makes you think clocks were used as ornaments?

Click the picture for an answer