Knowledge Physicists, astronomers, architects, geometricians, mathematicians, chronometer-makers, watchmakers: these are just some of the interested people who, through the years, have displayed a passion for the measurement of time. Their research led to major discoveries and inventions that are still relevant today. Whether physical or geometrical theories, natural laws or mechanical applications, their fundamental contributions have all made it possible to measure time with greater accuracy, to create timepieces to ever higher specifications while allowing aesthetic qualities to become more refined, and even to design increasingly efficient and modern production methods.
Leonardo da Vinci
(1452 - 1519)
Florentine painter, sculptor, architect and engineer. He was much interested in mechanics and studied means of working metals; he used the pendulum for regulating the running of certain machines and was familiar with the fusee, gimbal suspension and proportional compasses.