ALEXANDER BAIN

SCOTLAND, 1810-77

Clockmaker Alexander Bain is best-known for inventing the electric clock, which he patented in 1841. His first electric clock used a pendulum to measure time, but instead of springs or weights he used electromagnetic impulses to move it. He was dubbed the ‘Father of Electrical Horology’ for his efforts, and he later improved the design by adding a battery. At the 1851 Great Exhibition he received an exhibition medal for his clocks.