Hour-glass

A large glass that measures four hours, probably used for timing watches at sea. (Four hours was the length of an ordinary naval watch). It is filled with yellow sand. The centre joint is bound over with twine. The stand is made from wood, with hexagonal bases six crudely carved supports, and the number '1301' is inscribed on both bases of the stand.

Object Details

ID: AST0110
Collection: Astronomical and navigational instruments
Type: Hour-glass
Display location: Not on display
Creator: Unknown
Date made: circa 1700
Credit: National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London
Measurements: Overall: 385 x 255 x 260 mm