Houston Chronophage
/Combining centuries old Harrison escapement and artisanal skills with the latest CAD surfacing tools and cutting edge additive manufacturing techniques.
At Marble, creating ancient mythical beasts isn’t unusual. The Houston Chronophage (the fourth in the series) fuses traditional with hi-tech to create a clock that redefines the standards by which all others will be judged. Marble had the pleasure of supporting Dr Taylor in the development of a new clock, from concept through to installation in the Houston Museum of Natural Science in 2015, where it entertained the public for over a year before its final installation with a private collector
Concept Generation
"A once beautiful creature she's now beginning to show her age. Glimpses of her former beauty are evident in her magnificent, intricate wing structure and her deep mesmerising eyes. However the attractions she once had are beginning to fade..." Now that's what you call a design brief.
Detailed Design
The art of fusion is integrating tradition and innovation, craft and engineering. Marble left no stone unturned in our search for exactly the right look and finish, ensuring high quality, durability and precision at each stage. Combining cutting edge design tools, manufacturing technologies and materials, with centuries-old handcrafted techniques, to achieve a level of finish and resolution worthy of a truly bespoke timepiece.
Mechanical Engineering
The heritage of this clock stretches back nearly 300 years to John Harrison and his invention of the Grasshopper escapement mechanism. As with previous clocks the escapement wheel is controlled by the Chronophage's legs 'walking' on the clock, however, all other aspects were re-engineered, utilising the latest LED and control technology, ensuring optimal precision and reliability. The chronophage displays an array of 'tricks' as time passes including head nods, head rotation, jaw opening, tongue motion, tail stings and a spectacular display of her 6 wings on the hour. All of the mechanisms to undertake this were designed and engineered at Marble.
Software & Control
A feast for the senses, this Chronophage is a true walking, talking and singing kinetic sculpture. Like everyone she has her moods. There are times when she is playful and mischievous, other times when she seems tired and weary. These moods can be seen and heard as she marks the passing of time throughout the day, or displayed on request via remote control or user interface. Marble developed custom software, electronics, remote monitoring and the user interface to drive and control all aspects of her performance. As the designers of this unique time piece, the ongoing delight is seeing the reaction of viewers. It never fails to generate a smile.
Shipping & Installation
The Houston Chronophage was on display at The Houston Museum of Natural Science for a year before moving to its new permanent home. Marble designed and installed the creature at both venues
Introducing the Houston Chronophage
