Reproduction of a clock kit based on a sketch by Leonardo da Vinci

Here's snap-together kit that allows you to make a working model clock based on one of Leonardo's sketches. The clock uses a horizontal rotary pendulum design commonly known as a verge and foliot. The clock's speed is controlled by adjusting the weight and balance of the pendulum. It can be assemble in either a wall-mounted or standing configuration. The parts are plastic from the looks of it, but it's an attractive piece nevertheless.

Here is where you can get the Academy da Vinci Clock.

For more on clock escapements, check out Practical Clock Escapements by Laurie Penman. With over 400 line drawings the reader is taken step-by-step through the various operations when making or repairing escapements, with recommendations on the materials and tools to be used.

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Did anyone design better wooden machines than Leonardo da Vinci?

Here is some video showing part of an exhibit that was at the California University of Pennsylvania titled Leonardo da Vinci: Machines in Motion. In it, we see the breadth of Leonardo's genius. There is a large-scale wing designed for human flight, a pillar lifting device, and a water-powered saw mill. This, of course, just scratches the surface of what he created, but it gives you a feel for the ingenious way in which his mind worked on a both practical and fanciful problems.

If you are as fascinated by Leonardo's machines as I am, you might want to check out the book Leonardo's Machines: Da Vinci's Inventions Revealed which gets a 5-star rating on Amazon -- no small accomplishment.

From the book description:

This unique volume combines work from the original secret, coded, notebooks along with modern computer imaging, to piece together over 30 of Leonardo da Vinci's mechanical inventions into a sensational set of never-seen-before artworks. From Leonardo da Vinci's descriptions and drawings - and by using digital imaging - armoured ships, hydraulic machinery, winches and machines destined for use in war, work and pleasure emerge fully equipped and functional in stunning 3-dimensional, computer-generated artworks.

Also of interest may be a different book, Leonardo's Machines: Secrets & Inventions in the Da Vinci Codices. This one explores what Leonardo's inventions would have looked like if his sketches were brought to life in three dimensions. Sadly, we can't preview the inside of this book on Amazon, but the reviewers like it. Let me know if you have it and like it.

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