Precision Pendulum Clocks: The Quest for Accurate Timekeeping

by Derek Roberts

Connoisseurs, collectors, and technicians will be the audience for this handsome, oversize (9.25x12) volume on the history of clocks, mainly in England. Roberts, who makes and restores clocks, has written chapters on the Royal Observatory; solar, mean solar and the equation of time; compensated pendulums; and the clock makers Tomas Tompion, George Graham, and John Harrison. Four other specialists have contributed chapters on factors that affect the isochronicity of a pendulum, escapements, electric clocks, and pendulum clock precision from 1750. The chapters are well illustrated with color and b&w plates; many are highly technical. Annotation (c) Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

224 pages, Hardcover

First published June 1, 2003