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.
Giacomo Dondi
(1268 - 1360)
One of the most remarkable early clockmakers. A learned professor of astronomy, medicine, etc., he built a clock with a planetarium for the palace in his native town of Padua. He was the head of a family of horologists known later on as Dondi dall'orologio. His son Giovanni (1318-1380) was also an astronomer and physician; he built a clock that was even more complicated than his father's.