Already in the early 16th century, these works of fashion were praised, admired even by the most learned mathematicians, and, thanks to their small size, could be carried about. These were clocks which, with the miniaturisation of the balance spring that powered their movement, could now fit inside a pocket!
Their intricate gearworks, with interconnected mechanisms requiring winding to operate, were protected by external cases, to which chains were often attached, sometimes accompanied by seals or charms in addition to the winding keys.
The economic means of the owner became the only limit to the extravagance of the materials and techniques employed, representing a personal appropriation of time.
This clock is part of the Science and Technology Collection of the Museum of Angra do Heroismo.
