The "Antikythera Mechanism" (video)

[Slater]

I'm sure that many folks have already heard of this, and I think it's a fascinating topic. Essentially a 2000 year old mechanical computer designed by someone with detailed astronomical knowledge. This has apparently caused a re-evaluation of the history of technology - based on what we thought we knew about ancient Greek technology, this shouldn't even exist. One scholar suggested that it had to be designed by someone with genius-level intellect. A few maintain that it might be a hoax. Possibly. I'm not educated enough to know one way or the other.

Anyways, for any history geeks or bored people with an hour to spare:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3T1n7RjCMfQ

[Allen]

How long would a busted iphone last at the bottom of the sea?

That aside, mechanical gear cutting at that level is applied calc that can't be perfectly executed so....

[dmd08]

If the Antikythera interests you and you also enjoy custom fabrication, by hand, to an insane level of craftsmanship then check this channel out.

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCworsKCR-Sx6R6-BnIjS2MA

[dmd08]

..........

[crusader377]

Another interesting ancient technology was Heron of Alexandria primitive steam engine. Built in the 1st century A.D. in Roman Egypt.

Interestingly enough, although similar technology did not come about til the late 1700s, it was used almost as a party trick. The Roman's had an abundance of slave labor and no one really thought about using the power of steam to do work.

[crusader377]

Another interesting technology was Archemedes odometer.

https://youtu.be/XeLZ9osTmp0