Horological Meandering

SJX
[Purist]
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Part III: Even more timekeepers...

The next few photos shown what is probably the most interesting timekeeping device I have ever seen...


Above: This massive clock was designed to control signals of marine buoys, presumably at a naval base



Above: Winding the machine...


Above: After opening the cover, the dial is exposed

Below: This is the fascinating bit...






Each of the long metal straps are actuallly electric contact points, which are controlled by the nasty looking series of gears in the top centre. The electric contacts were connected to marine buoys, which would then light up at specific times.

Below: This is tiny device is actually a timekeeper...


for a naval mine!


After it is set, the tube is plugged into the mine, and it's good to go.

Despite being designed to be blown up, it is a beautifully made piece of equipment. The tube is actually brushed finished and evenly coated with a layer of paint. This particular example looks like 'new old stock'.


Above: The incredible collection of military clocks. Those familiar looking clocks on the front of the second shelf are from fighter jets, but the most interesting is the square grey contraption in the back centre of the second shelf. Although it resembles a kitchen applicance, it is actually a timer from a Vostok space capsule.






Above: This is a camera fitted to an airforce bomber/spy plane. Note that is comes complete with a tiny mechanical watch. Mark noted that this is one of the few in the world that is in near mint and complete condition.

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