Roger, > I think the lack of equation-of-time indicators on dials before the > mid-1800s has a simple explanation: Sundial time was considered > CORRECT, and the mean solar time shown by clocks WRONG (or, at least, > a mere approximation).
Well, I suppose there was some kind of transitional period, because I've got a Spanish treaty on how to fix mechanical clocks from sundials and correcting the equation of time dated in 1794... So what happened in these 80 years? I guess mechanical dials improved and then it made sense to make the corrections, but at least astronomers knew about the equation of time from a long time ago. > Another one, John Wing's Almanack, says on the cover that it > contains "an Equation Table, for the rectifying Pendulum Clocks and > Watches." Mine is the opposite one! Regards, Anselmo -
