The Great Mathemathecian and Horologist
As one of the most prominent figure in horology, Richard of Wallingford had other roles to play. He was also a mathematician with contributions proven significant in the clockmaking industry.
Richard of Wallingford made progress in horology while he served as abbot of St. Albans Abbey in Hertfordshire. He was a son of a blacksmith and was orphaned at a young age. He was then taken to the Prior of Holy Trinity Priory, William de Kirkeby. Eventually, Richard devoted six years of studying at Oxford University before he became a monk at St. Albans. He continued his studies for nine years more at Oxford University and became an abbot in 1326.
Richard’s most popular contribution in the world of horology was the astronomical clock he designed. The clock was however completed 20 years after his death and was pursued by Willian of Walsham. Unfortunately, the invention was destroyed with Henry VIII’s reformation and the dissolution of the St. Albans Abbey.
The prestige of Richard’s invention can greatly be attributed to its having the most complex clock mechanism and as well as one of the most sophisticated clocks among the other British antique clocks.
The only clock that can be compared to Richard’s creation in terms of its complexity is the astrarium of Giovanni de Dondi. Scholars have recorded and showed proofs that many others attempted to build recreations of Richard’s clock. One of these was built by Haward Hological ltd., which was previously located at the now defunct Time Museum in Rockford, Illinois. Another recreation was made by Eric Watson, which is now found in the Wallingfor Museum, and another built in 1988, which is to be found at St. Albans Cathedral.
The astronomical clocks richared developed are masterpieces of their kind. Although they no longer exist, detailed descriptions of their design and construction have been kept. It was due to this that many others attempted to reproduce Richard’s clock. However, these clocks were not as accurate as what their designers tried them to be. Although the gear ratios have been thoroughly calculated, flaws had been encountered during their manufacture. Also, unlike the intricate advanced wheelwork of Richard’s creation, the timekeeping mechanism of the recreated clocks are almost simple verge and folio escapement, which contained errors of at least half an hour each day. Advances were however made in 1559 when Taqi al-Din invented the first astronomical clock to be run by springs, making it more accurate.
Astronomical clocks are a challenge to clockmakers that those who build them impress people with a liking for collectible clocks and British antique clocks.
Aside from his famous antique clock, Richard of Wallingford also invented a calculation device called the Albion. This device can be used for astronomical calculations and can even predict eclipses. The marvels of his work can be found in the Tractatus Albionis. As a mathematician, Richard published works on trigonometry, celestial coordinates, astrology, and as well as other religious works.