1767 John Harrison & marine timekeeper H4 1767 John Harrison & marine timekeeper H4
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1767 John Harrison & marine timekeeper H4 1767 John Harrison & marine timekeeper H4
John Harrison, English clockmaker and inventor of the marine chronometer that solved the longitude problem (b. 24 March 1693 - d. 24 March 1776). An engraving by W. Holl in " The Gallery of Portraits" 1835, with later colouring, from an engraving by Tassaert - itself from a painting by Thomas King 1767. Harrison with his famous watch H4 that solved the marine longitude problem by keeping time accurately enough to gauge Greenwich noon during a long voyage. The watch became embroiled in a dispute when the Board, responsible for awarding the longitude prize, took it for further testing. Their concern was that its accuracy was a freak and could not be duplicated by another watch of the same design. Partly this was a result of their own bias towards astronomical methods of longitude reckoning. A copy of H4 (K1) was used on Cooks second and third voyage and he praised its accuracy
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Media ID 6319125
© PAUL D STEWART/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Chronometer Greenwich Longitude Navigation Watch Captain Cook John Harrison Marine Chronometer Maskelyne Royal Observatory
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the legendary John Harrison, an English clockmaker and inventor who revolutionized navigation with his groundbreaking marine chronometer. The image captures Harrison alongside his renowned creation, the marine timekeeper H4, which played a pivotal role in solving the longitude problem during long voyages. Engraved by W. Holl in "The Gallery of Portraits" in 1835 and later enhanced with vibrant colors, this print is a testament to Harrison's remarkable achievements. The original painting by Thomas King from 1767 served as inspiration for this exquisite artwork. Harrison's H4 watch became embroiled in controversy when it was taken for further testing by the Board responsible for awarding the prestigious longitude prize. Their skepticism stemmed from concerns that its unprecedented accuracy could not be replicated by another watch of similar design. This dispute reflected their bias towards astronomical methods of determining longitude. However, Captain Cook himself used a copy of H4 (K1) on his second and third voyages, praising its unrivaled precision. This endorsement solidified Harrison's legacy as a pioneering figure in maritime navigation. Displayed against the backdrop of the Royal Observatory at Greenwich, this illustration beautifully encapsulates both the scientific ingenuity behind Harrison's invention and its profound impact on human exploration. It serves as a timeless tribute to one man's quest to conquer time itself and forever changed our understanding of global positioning at sea.
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