Spring-powered mechanism with rotating tourbillon-style display
Build difficulty: This is a complex mechanical model and is not recommended as a first UGEARS build.
The Clockwork Universe theory favored by 17th C deists held that the Earth and the heavens, and all their motions, were like a giant clock, with God as the Clockmaker. Newton's three laws of motion and the principle of universal gravitation were thought to be sufficient to explain phenomena of any kind, using mechanical conceptions. At Ugears we love mechanical conceptions! And so with a nod to Isaac Newton, we present the Sky Watcher Tourbillon Table Clock, a fascinating combination of imaginative celestial observatory and functional table clock!
For years, Ugears fans around the world clamored for us to create a functional wooden clock model. Together with the gravity powered, wall-mounted Aero Clock, and now the spring-loaded Tourbillon Table Clock, we have doubly delivered! Clocks are complex mechanisms. We bet you never thought you could build your own clock out of wood, and have it keep accurate time! But with Ugears models, you become a creative partner in an amazing mechanical adventure.
The standout feature of this functional wooden model table clock is the rotating tourbillon that sits on top. The Sky Watcher tourbillon mechanism has three axes of rotation: around the vertical axis of the clock, horizontal axis of the clock, and relative to the central axis of the inner sphere.
The wind-up clock operates based on the accumulation of potential energy in a flat spring, and the metered release of this energy. When fully wound it can power the timepiece for approximately 2–3 hours. The time display is placed on reels: the minute reel rotates smoothly while the hour reel marks the passage of time with a percussive mechanism.
This model kit is definitely not for beginners, but will prove a satisfying challenge for more experienced modellers. To keep accurate time, careful assembly and lubrication are important. The model allows for timekeeping adjustment with a balance wheel, and the current time can be set by turning the reels.
The kit includes detailed illustrated instructions in 11 languages. If a part is broken during assembly, replacement parts are available through UGEARS customer support.
The Sky Watcher Tourbillon Table Clock works well as a mechanical display piece, hobby project or gift for clock enthusiasts, model builders and people who enjoy complex DIY wooden mechanisms.
