Understanding Horology
Understanding Horology: The Art and Study of Timekeeping
Horology is the study of the science and art of timekeeping devices. Some instruments used in the study of horology are watches, antique clocks and chronometers. There are many museums and libraries devoted to this study. Horology started back in the days of the Babylonians. They came up with the idea of the 60-second minutes and 60-minute hours we use today.
There have been numerous organizations, both professionally and scholarly, formed from horology. Some of these are the American Watchmakers-Clockmakers Institute which offers hands-on training in different parts of the U.S. Another one is the National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors (NAWCC). Members include hobbyists, professional clock dealers, and clock repair persons. There are several organizations located in England that offer correspondence courses.
About Horologists
People who are interested in horology are called horologists. The term is used for scholars of horology and people who deal professionally with clockmakers. Most horologists have a large collection of collectible or antique clocks in their home and workplace. It has been said that a horologist would rather hear the sound of a clock ticking than a human's voice.
Getting Started with Horology
When studying horology, you will find there are many tools and machines used in this skill. Some tools you will need are standard keys, a let down mainspring set, suspension springs, wrenches, brass spring wires, a clock hand brushing tool, a set of needle files, a gauge for measuring metric and inches, a two-ounce and twelve-ounce hammer, a clock punch and staking set, a hand saw with extra blades, a pivot locator, alligator clips, a vise, emery buffs, and tweezers.
Most of these items are inexpensive but are necessary if you are a beginner. There are many more tools you will need as you progress in horology, and they can be more expensive. Some of these are the lathe, brushing tool, and cleaning machine.
When you graduate from a school for horology, you will have the abilities of a skilled jeweler. This will give you the qualifications for watch repair, clock repair, jewelry repair and engraving. Being a horologist can bring out the creative and artistic skills that you have had hidden for all these years. Also, you'll get to study some really interesting antique clocks.
Remember, whether you are interested in horology as a hobby or as a profession, it will bring you happiness knowing you have repaired an old century clock that you can add to your antique clock collection or your home decor.