Hampton Court astronomical clock

The Hampton Court astronomical clock measures 4.6 meters in diameter and contains three copper dials that rotate at different speeds to display celestial information.

Nicholas Kratzer designed this clock in 1540 for Henry VIII, while French clockmaker Nicholas Oursian constructed it with assistants Lawrence Daunton and Peter Doute.

The clock displays a pre-Copernican view of the universe, with information about zodiac signs, moon phases, and solar positions according to medieval understanding.

Travelers used the clock to determine high tide times at London Bridge, which was essential for planning river journeys between Hampton Court and London.

The central dial rotates once per lunar month to show when the moon crosses the meridian, while the outer dial completes one rotation annually for days and months.

Location: London Borough of Richmond upon Thames

Inception: 1540

GPS coordinates: 51.40342,-0.33789

Latest update: March 10, 2025 16:01