1480-1542

German Clockmaker

The invention of the portable timepiece or, as we know it today, the watch, is attributed to Peter Henlein, a locksmith from the city of Nuremburg, Germany. He introduced the mainspring as a replacement for weights, enabling the small size and portability of the watch.

During Henlein's time the role of locksmith extended well past locks. Such a locksmith was also an expert mechanic, similar to a modern toolmaker. The medieval locksmith, like the medieval blacksmith, was involved in producing complex and detailed devices. As a result, many locksmiths and blacksmiths were involved in the development and construction of time-keeping devices.

Around 1500, Henlein began to make small clocks that were driven by a spring. These were the first portable timepieces and, designed to be carried by hand, were frequently circular or oval in shape. Because of this oval shape, and a mistranslation of...