Prototype 64 kHz Quartz Crystal Controlled Chronometer, circ...

Prototype 64 kHz Quartz Crystal Controlled Chronometer, circa 1964, 10" high, 12" wide, depth 5" ** A unique early electronic timepiece incorporating a quartz crystal controlled oscillator and frequency divider system to drive a Gent of Leicester one second slave clock movement The silvered and engraved dial is inscribed: 'G3OIR 1964 G8QG' and 'QUARTZ CRYSTAL CONTROLLED CHRONOMETER', with the inclusion of the amateur radio call signs G3OIR and G8QG advocates an association with licensed radio amateurs, reflecting the important role played by the amateur radio community in experimenting with precision frequency control, quartz oscillators and electronic timekeeping during the 1960s The 64 kHz quartz crystal unit is housed in a clear glass valve style envelope mounted on an octal base, reflecting the transitional period between valve era electronic construction and modern solid state technology. Six circuit boards provide the oscillator, frequency divider and clock driver functions required to operate the Gent of Leicester one second slave clock mechanism. The complete assembly is displayed beneath a glazed wooden cover, revealing both the traditional electromechanical clock movement and the innovative electronic timekeeping system The call sign G8QG belongs to G.W.A. Illingworth, of 77 Clifton Road, Southport, Lancashire, England This historical station is linked directly to a famous father-and-son radio amateur duo operating out of Southport Father: George. W.A. Illingworth (G8QG), was heavily active in the Southport Amateur Transmitting Society dating back to the late 1930s, helping erect the club's landmark 55-foot tower mast Son: Lewis Illingworth (G3OIR), was licensed later under the post-war "G3" block During the mid-1960s, the joint G8QG / G3OIR family station was frequently featured in contemporary Short Wave Magazine bulletins for their technical lectures and local radio society meetings This clock therefore represents an important stage in the development of precision timekeeping, when quartz crystal oscillators were replacing mechanical regulators but before commercial quartz clocks and integrated circuit technology became commonplace. With letter describing the clock’s quartz crystal ** From the David Read Collection

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