The most elaborate clock of the 11th century stood in China.

1088

Su Song’s tower (1088), some 12 metres tall, was driven by a waterwheel and an endless chain, turning an armillary sphere and striking bells.

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The event

• Founding of the Song dynasty960 · Kaifeng. General Zhao Kuangyin proclaimed himself emperor and founded the Song dynasty with its capital at Kaifeng. The Song era saw booming cities, commerce and technology, from printing and the compass to gunpowder and paper money.

11th century

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