Construction of full scale mockup, January to June
2006
The full scale mockup was constructed over a six month period from January through June
of 2006.
First photo shows the differential remontoire drive (center wheel cluster) which is at
the heart of the dual drive system. These are coupled to the two counter-rotating
escapement wheels shown in the center and last photo.
Several individual parts: first the escapement wheels and their drive bevels. Next two
the remontoire drives.
Further photos of the remontoire and overall views.
Initial fly fan assemblies. Next the bell hammer pulls, and next the first and main
dial, the mean solar time and equation of time dial.
More components are added culminating with the balances in the last photo.
Second photo shows the initial naive fly fan concept on the left.
Fly fans now fully developed in their dual, four-bladed compound 'tourbillon'
configuration. Last photo shows their position on the mockup from the rear.
The fly fan assemblies as viewed from the front, next from above.
The center photo shows the initial concept for the sun/moon rise/setting dial system,
next another shot of the fly fan tourbillon.
Rear view of the shots from above; the sun/moon rise/setting dials as well as the
perpetual calendar indicators.
Getting close to completion. The last photo begins our concept for the grand orrery.
First shot shows a few wheels in connection with the equation of time system. Next the
rear shot, but still lacking all of the final wheel work that will later appear. Finally
in the last photo the grand orrery.
These photos are the mockup as completed on the stand and case as envisioned to date.
If only the real movement in metal could be constructed so quickly!
Below are a few videos of the process. Pay special attention to the first video of the
fabricator's youngest son taking the mockup for a "test drive"!