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.
Léon Foucault
(1819 - 1868)
French physicist, inventor of synchronization; he demonstrated the earth's rotation by means of a pendulum, invented the gyroscope and a method for determining the velocity of light; he discovered the currents named after him. Member of the Académie des Sciences and Fellow of the Royal Society, London.