Blacksmith’s tongs and mechanical clock: what they have in common

1. Step 1. Blacksmith’s tongs — has part — Pivot joint. The pivot of the halves.
2. Step 2. Pivot joint — is part of — Compasses. The pivot of the opening.
3. Step 3. Compasses — is used in — Euclidean geometry. Constructions with compass and straightedge.
4. Step 4. Euclidean geometry — is used in — Sundial. The scale is marked by the angle of the shadow.
5. Step 5. Sundial — works like — Water clock (clepsydra). Two ancient ways to measure time: by a shadow and by flowing water.
6. Step 6. Water clock (clepsydra) — evolved into — Mechanical clock. Mechanical clocks replaced water clocks, swapping the flow of water for an escapement.

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