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.
John Harrison
(1693 - 1776)
English chronometer-maker, inventor of an escapement, the gridiron pendulum and the first compensation-curb for watches comprising a bimetallic strip with two pins embracing the balance-spring. For one of his marine chronometers he was awarded the prize promised by the British Parliament for a satisfactory solution of the so-called “problem of longitude”.