When was the mechanical gear (balance wheel) clock invented?

The first mechanical clocks, employing the verge escapement mechanism with a foliot or balance wheel timekeeper, were invented in Europe at around the start of the 14th century (between 1300 and 1350). It is believed by historians, scientists, and others that mechanical clocks were used mostly in medieval monasteries to keep the residents (occupants and monks) on regulated work schedules and standard schedules for prayers.

When mechanical clocks came into routine use, they were often wound twice or more times a day to ensure accuracy and to help people daily function as proficiently as possible. For the monasteries, these clocks had to broadcast important times and durations with bells. They were rung either by hand or by a mechanical device, such as by a falling weight or with a rotating beater. The importance of mechanical clocks is that they make telling time more accurate. They were better than any type of water or sun clock. Although the latter clocks did remain overwhelmingly in use over mechanical clocks during the 14th century.

More Info: en.wikipedia.org

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12 Comments

Patrick Toomer

The mechanical gear clock is not the same as a balance wheel clock. Mechanical gear clocks appeared in the 14th century. Balance wheel was invented by Huygens in the 17th century.

Jhan Schmitz

Balance wheel clock in the late 17th century- the question was not stated correctly.

bonniecardona

Your question asks about the balance wheel clock which was invented in 1675; the mechanical clock was invented earlier. The balance wheel is used in small clocks and watches.

johnbheymann

Incorrect answer . Balance wheel clocks were invented in 1675 by the Dutch man Huygens .

eculleeney

Wrongly worded and wrong answer. I am always leary of E11 Hitman, he tries to deceive you in every question. I will pass his questions moving forward.

tdelisi

I am now and have always been, totally absorbed by the passage of time. I love to keep in synch with the atomic clock signal from CO. I count time in many ways - every day.