Chronometer Escapement Model
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
late 18th century
This object is an enlarged working model of a chronometer escapement, attributed to Thomas Earnshaw and dated to the late 18th century. The assembly features a metal chronometer mechanism mounted onto a circular, tiered wooden base.
The model demonstrates the mechanical components of a chronometer escapement, which was historically used in portable timekeeping devices for maritime navigation and longitude determination. The construction includes jewelled pallets and an endstone. The mechanism is supported by a series of vertical pillars and a curved, decorated bridge. The model stands 10 cm high with an outside diameter of 20 cm. It was acquired by Museum Victoria through a loan and subsequent donation by Joseph Lowy in 1954.
Evidence at a glance
- Linked sources
- 1
- Photograph views
- 1
- Catalogue references
- 0
Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.
Technical characteristics
- Date
- late 18th century
- Type
- Educational model
- Maker
- Thomas Earnshaw
- Dimensions
- 10 cm height, 20 cm diameter
- Acquisition
- Donated by Joseph Lowy, 1954
- Construction
- Jewelled pallets and endstone
- Place recorded
- England
- Maker / attribution
- Thomas Earnshaw
- Registration number
- ST 23659
Design
- Visible features
- • Large, non-functional wooden tiered base with feet • Intricate brass metalwork including a decorated bridge • Visible balance spring and jewelled components within the escapement mechanism • Vertical pillar-based framework supporting the top bridge structure
- Construction and Design
- The chronometer escapement model is constructed as an enlarged representation of an Earnshaw chronometer escapement. The mechanism is elevated above a circular wooden base, which features a tiered profile and small feet. The internal assembly is supported by vertical brass pillars, which anchor the framework to a brass plate fixed upon the wooden base. At the top of the assembly, a curved bridge with decorative engraving provides stability to the upper pivot point of the escapement.
- Acquisition and Documentation
- Museum Victoria catalogues this object under the registration number ST 23659. The item was initially held by the museum through a loan agreement before transitioning to a permanent donation. The donor, Joseph Lowy, provided the object to the institution in March 1954. The museum maintains this object within its science and measurement collections, grouping it with other horological chronometer models.
- Historical Context and Attribution
- The model is attributed to Thomas Earnshaw, a British watchmaker noted for his contributions to the development of the chronometer. During the late 18th century, the refinement of these devices was critical for maritime operations, particularly in the calculation of longitude. The object served as an educational tool for visualizing the complex internal function of chronometers.
Identification
- Source note
- Facts transcribed from the linked source listing or collection record. Attribution and specifications are source-reported and have not been independently authenticated.
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.
Research required
- Research required: The exact provenance beyond the 1954 donation is not detailed.
- Research required: The assertion that it is a working model is based on the source text, though functional state is unverified.