British clockmaker brings perfect replica of John Harrison’s revolutionary H1 marine chronometer back to life
Sinclair Harding, a renowned British clockmaker, has successfully recreated a life-size replica of John Harrison’s groundbreaking H1 marine chronometer, an invention pivotal for safe long-distance sea travel during the Age of Sail. Funded by Pragnell, an authorized dealer of Rolex and Patek Philippe, this project was spearheaded by Charlie Pragnell and clockmaker Bob Bray, who aimed to replicate every detail of the original H1, famously known for its revolutionary timekeeping capabilities that significantly aided explorers like Captain James Cook. The replica not only showcases the exquisite craftsmanship and technological innovation of the original but is also mounted on a swinging gimbal designed to mimic the rocking motion of a ship. This artistic presentation incorporates elements like a carved wooden ship’s hull and a brass frame adorned with sculpted pineapples, symbolizing the fruits of navigation advancements made possible by marine chronometers. The creators plan to produce up to five more replicas for private clients, maintaining a commitment to the authentic engineering that defined Harrison’s original work.
