The Chronophage

Midsummer Chronophage

People say the most important invention for mankind was the wheel. I think that’s untrue – I think the invention which changed mankind most of all is the clock. The wheel is the servant of mankind, but clocks control us.

Unlike the Corpus Chronophage, which resembles a grasshopper, the Midsummer has been based on a huge mythical fly-like creature with intricate wings and a sting in its tail.

I am not a person who stands still and I am always looking for ways to improve and innovate.  The Midsummer is no exception to this rule.  So the Midsummer Chronophage was revitalised in splendid shimmering colours and put on display in Cambridge at Lion Yard where it drew in large crowds of delighted people who were truly mesmerised.

Launch at Lion Yard Cambridge on the Summer Solstice

Apart from its stunning and colourful design, the clock is remarkable because it engages with people and is a timely reminder that once a minute passes, it can never be had again. If you look carefully you will see that as the clock gets to 59 seconds (shown on the outer circle of lights) the creature eats the minute and you cannot get it back.

I’ve had an interesting life and believe that every day should be lived to the full. The Midsummer Chronophage reminds us that time quickly marches on before we know it, so it’s a good habit to make the most of each hour, week and month. To complicate matters, time is relative, so minutes can move fast when we are happy and excited yet seem to slow down when less is happening.

I’m thrilled and delighted that the Midsummer Chronophage clock can now be enjoyed by those in the Isle of Man.  The clock is on display until Midsummer’s Day in June 2021 at the 1886 Bar and Restaurant in Regent Street, Douglas.

If you are interested in knowing more about the Chronophage clock, feel free to review our brochure: