THE DESIGN OF TIME
VISIT. THE. MOON.
Dear Readers,
In this edition of our digest, we delve into the intricate tapestry of timekeeping – a thread that weaves through the fabric of human history. From the dawn of civilization to the edge of the cosmos, time has been our steadfast companion, marking the rhythm of our existence.
As the Olympics draw near, our focus sharpens on the seamless dance between design and keeping time, and the way the evolution of keeping time, in practice and aesthetics, has allowed human kind to accomplish things beyond tracking sporting events. Such things like, going to: the Moon.
And what is particularly interesting is that time measurement has independently evolved in all cultures, proving to play an essential role in human existence, such as: agricultural practices, navigation & exploration, religious & ritual observances, etc.
And what is particularly interesting is that time measurement has independently evolved in all cultures, proving to play an essential role in human existence, such as: agricultural practices, navigation & exploration, religious & ritual observances, etc.
Ancient Egyptians are known to have used shadow clocks. Diagonal star clocks used the movements of the constellations. The water clock was developed in the 1500s BC. By 900 AD, the candle clock was invented. The Middle Ages had the wheel clock and bells in the church towers. By the 1400s there was the hourglass to measure shorter intervals of time.
In the 1600s, famous astronomer & physicist Galileo Galilei described the laws of pendulum motion, leading to the invention of the most precise timekeeping clock of its time: the pendulum clock, which he used to time various astronomical events.
The development of finer tools meant pocket watches and clocks evolved into exquisite timepieces, becoming not just functional devices but also fashionable accessories. The compact wristwatch found its niche in the military, aviation, and athletics, proving that timekeeping could be both utilitarian and stylish.
Timekeeping for sporting events took a turn in 1932 Olympics when the IOC acquired OMEGA Watches as their official timekeeper. Precision and accuracy became refined and increasingly important. In the 1960s, the Olympics saw the invention of the first large electronic scoreboards and swimming touchpads.
Yet, the pursuit of precision extended beyond the boundaries of sports. In 1965, the rapidly accelerating space program, NASA, subjected different timepieces to destructive challenges in order to certify their capacity to assist in all manned space missions and Extravehicular Activity. In 1969, the Apollo 11 Crew made history, as mankind stepped for the first onto the moon wearing an OMEGA watch—an indelible moment where timekeeping and human achievement converged.
As we reflect on this fascinating journey through the design of time, let us be inspired by the resilience and innovation that have marked our collective pursuit of precision. In the spirit of unwavering commitment, let this edition of our Digest be a testament to the timeless synergy between design, time, and human ingenuity.
Onward and upward,
Metin Mirasyedi
Founder & Managing Director of PAP – THE BRAND
By Julie Spivey
The Process of Time
„Problem: Information about the conepts involving time are often difficult to understand.
1. They often consist of cliche imagery of space, the universe, etc
2. The concepts are impersonal and too abstract.
3. Text-heavy scholarly material begins to feel overwhelming. Viewers see ‚too much‘ and move on.
4. We can’t see time. 3D space is seen. How do you visualize something that is invisible? This is a challenge for anyone, including experts.“
