In a remarkable fusion of history and modern technology, a high-quality antique movement developed in the 1970s has been transformed into a state-of-the-art secular perpetual calendar clock. This innovative table clock not only showcases the evolution of mechanical watchmaking but also symbolizes the collaboration between traditional craftsmanship and contemporary engineering.
Understanding the Calendar Cycle
The complete cycle of the calendar spans 400 years, rather than the commonly referenced 4 years. This cycle is based on astronomical observations, with each year averaging approximately 365.2422 days. The current leap year rules dictate that there is a leap year every four years, with exceptions for certain centuries, making the secular perpetual calendar a complex mechanism.
Innovative Leap
The first secular perpetual calendar was created by Patek Philippe in 1972, and since then, only a handful of manufacturers have successfully produced them. This new clock, designed by Chieh-Lin Ting, represents a significant advancement in the field, achieving a level of complexity and precision previously unseen in mass production. Chieh-Lin Ting is the sixth person in the world to independently design and manufacture a "secular perpetual calendar." This desk clock boasts three proprietary patents, filling a significant gap in the domestic market for astronomical and calendrical mechanical timepieces.
Instantaneous Jump Mechanism
This clock features an instantaneous jump mechanism for its calendar, moon phase, week, and month displays, completing transitions in under two seconds. This innovation eliminates the slow transition typical of traditional perpetual calendars, enhancing usability, especially in low-light conditions
Aesthetic Appeal
The design of the clock utilizing geometric shapes to create a sense of industrial strength and vitality. The case is made from aerospace-grade aluminum, treated for enhanced durability, and features a modern, minimalist aesthetic that contrasts with traditional watch designs
Conclusion
The transformationl of the 1970s Chinese antique movement into a secular perpetual calendar clock is a testament to the enduring legacy of traditional craftsmanship and the potential for innovation in the watchmaking industry. This project not only honors the past but also paves the way for future advancements in horology.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Movement Information
It features a 1995 vintage 8-day, 15-jewel mechanical alarm clock movement, designed to run for 216 hours. The cumulative error over eight days does not exceed 5 minutes, with actual precision controllable within 30 seconds over eight days.
Movement Size
The movement measures 60mm and is equipped with 15 jewel bearings.
Secular Perpetual Calendar Module
The clock includes a secular perpetual calendar module that does not require calendar adjustments until the year 3999. This module utilizes the original alarm clock mainspring, modified into an instantaneous jump structure for the calendar, with a moon phase accuracy of one day over 122 years. All three structural features are patented.
Calendar Quick Adjust
It has a calendar quick adjust mode that allows for continuous quick-setting for over one month when fully wound.
Clock Dimensions
The overall height of the clock is 135mm, and the maximum diameter of the base is 154mm.
Glass Material
The clock uses a high-transparency, low-iron ultra-white glass mirror with a single-sided coating, achieving a light transmittance of over 91.5%.
Limited Edition and Price
USD$2800 and limited to 99 piece only