This book explores the fascinating history and evolution of timekeeping devices, from ancient methods of measuring time to modern mechanical clocks. Through engaging stories and historical anecdotes, the author brings to life the world of clocks, covering topics such as the origins of clocks in Alexandria, unique timekeeping tricks like milk clocks and fire clocks, and the innovations of clockmakers throughout history. The book also highlights notable figures, such as Brother Augustin and famous mechanical men, and examines iconic clocks like Big Ben and the wonders of the Strasbourg Cathedral. A blend of storytelling and science, this book offers both a journey through history and a deeper understanding of how time has been measured across different eras and cultures.

Translated by Beatrice Kincead

Illustrated by N. Lapshin

You can get the book here and here

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CONTENTS

PART ONE
What the World Would Be Like Without Clocks 9
The Antique Shop 12
The Story of Brother Augustin 13
The Clock in the Sky 16
How People Measured Time by Steps 19
The Indian Fakir’s Trick 20
Clocks Which Had Faces But Which Lacked Hands 23
From Saint Petersburg Twenty-two Versts 25
Ivan Ivanitch’s and Ivan Petrovitch’s Little Talk 27
Milk Clocks 31
Clocks and Potions 34
“Big” and “Little” Hours or Long and Short Hours 36
A Live Alarm Clock 40
The Story of Marcus and Julius 42
The Clock-makers of Alexandria 45
The Clock of a “Thousand and One Nights” 50
Fire Clocks and Fire Alarm Clocks 53

PART TWO
The Plunder of the Crusaders 59
Clock and Well 62
A Few Words About Rabbits 64
Big Tom’s Joke 69
Nuremberg Eggs and What Was Hatched from Them 72
The Duke and the Pickpocket 81
Jacquemar and His Wife 84
Two Boys 88
What the Pendulum Said 92
Engineers of Former Centuries 97
Mechanical Men 102
The Wonders of Strasbourg Cathedral 108
Big Ben 114
Watches Have Pendulums Too 116
Prompt Aid When Accidents Happen 121
Shipping Time 125
Sky Clocks Again 128