From Sundials to Smartwatches: 10 Surprising Facts About Time’s Evolution

Timepieces are still essential in modern society, where time norms are established. We need timepieces to such an extent that a world without them is unimaginable. So, when were timepieces invented? From the first water clocks and sundials in human history to the invention of spring and quartz watches. We delve into the hidden story of the timepieces, which sparkle on our wrists and play various roles.

Human Desire for the Sun

In the past, people noticed that sunlight was constantly shifting while observing shadows, and they used a stick on the ground to mark the passing of time. The formal measurement of time using the sun began around 1500 BC in Egypt. In Egypt, the cradle of ancient civilization, people measured time using a giant stone pillar known as an “obelisk” as a sundial. Today’s clock hands turn to the right also originates from the movement of the sun’s shadow to the right.

The Emergence of Sundials and Water Clocks

The earliest timepieces created by humankind were sundials and water clocks that used natural elements. Sundials could only be used during the day when the sun was up, leading to the birth of water clocks. Water clocks are structured by carving scales onto a barrel filled with water and making a small hole. Then, as the water surface as it sinks, it reveals the scales, allowing you to tell the time. The “Borugak Jagyeongnu,” made during the reign of King Sejong, is a well-known clepsydra.

Invention of the Mechanical Clocks

People ultimately moved away from utilizing nature to measure time and instead built mechanical clocks that use mechanical components to tell the time more accurately. A mechanical watch comprises different parts that work together, such as balance wheels, escape gears, and escapements. The mainspring or pendulum unwinds to provide power to these moving parts. It is generally accepted that it was first invented in Europe in the 13th century.

What is the Origin of the Word “Watch”?

What is the origin of the word “watch”? There are several theories, but the most credible came from the old English word “woecce,” meaning “watchman,” because city watchmen used timing devices to track their work shifts. It is also speculated to have originated from 17th-century sailors. They used a new mechanism to measure the time and length of their shipboard watches.

Invention of Spring Clocks

With the invention of the springs in the 15th century, clocks became smaller and more accurate thanks to the springs. During this time, pendulum clocks also appeared. Until modern times, clocks were handmade and considered “luxury goods” used only by the affluent. With the Industrial Revolution in the 17th century, a mass production system was established, and clocks became popularized.

Invention of Quartz Watches

A “quartz watch” with an electrically charged battery was created in the United States in 1927. Quartz watches took over the market once dominated by European mechanical clocks because they were far more accurate, affordable, and long-lasting than previous models. The widespread availability of quartz timepieces has enabled the general population to purchase watches, which were once costly luxury items, at a reasonable cost.

Boucheron

Boucheron is a brand that first gained its reputation in Place Vendome, France, in 1858. It is famous for its exquisite craftsmanship and was a brand for royalty, producing various accessories, including watches. It is mainly renowned as the brand that first produced women’s wristwatches and gained popularity with its elegant yet unique jewelry. Boucheron, which contains the history and tradition of artisans, has been loved for a long time.

Rolex

The history of Rolex, the most popular and top watch brand, dates back to 1908. Unlike most competitors who produced inferior products by moving their production bases to South America and Southeast Asia to compete with quartz age and Japanese watches, Rolex never made watches outside of Switzerland. As a result, the public trusted Rolex watches, which are sturdy, accurate, and consistently maintain high quality, and Rolex became the world’s top watch brand.

Cartier

There is much debate about the first wristwatch in human history, but Cartier was developed to be worn on the wrist. In 1904, after much research, Louis Cartier eventually created the first wristwatch equipped with lugs to attach the case. This watch, named Santos Watch, was fitted with a square case and a leather strap. 1911, Cartier launched a model called “Santos de Cartier,” which was a huge success. Since then, this product has been loved by watch enthusiasts for over a century.

Omega

The word “Omega” is the 24th capital letter in the Greek 24-letter alphabet and signifies a supremely high existence. Like its meaning, the Omega watch brand has been in human history for over 170 years since its establishment in 1848. The Omega watch, recognized for its quality at the London Kew Observatory, Swiss Neuchâtel, and Geneva Observatory, has released a variety of watches. Later, in 1962, it passed NASA’s space flight watch test and played a crucial role in the moon landing mission in 1969.

By. Hye In Oh