A time-eating clock – a story of invention

How long does a minute feel? Do some minutes feel longer than others?

The Midsummer Chronophage clock is one of two clocks in the world to show the experience of relative time. Developed by British inventor Dr John C Taylor, the clock is inspired by the idea that everyone experiences time differently.

Alongside the Midsummer Chronophage clock are two important clocks from the history of timekeeping – one of the earliest examples of pioneering clockmakers, the Fromanteel family’s work, and a workshop clock of British clockmaker John Harrison (1693-1776).

The Midsummer Chronophage clock is just one invention in Dr John Taylor’s life’s work. His most successful invention, a kettle control, is used 1 billion times every day.

'Inventing is hard work. The ideas are easy but turning them into a practical embodiment is the difficulty.' Dr John Taylor

Hear Dr John Taylor talking about invention and his life’s work in a specially commissioned interview that will be playing on gallery or find out about time with a new trail.