The Beverly Clock functions by converting daily temperature fluctuations into kinetic energy to maintain its self-winding mechanism, a device presented during the 1865 New Zealand Exhibition. Born in 1822 in Alford, Arthur Beverly established himself as a watchmaker, mathematician, and astronomer, contributing significantly to scientific development within New Zealand before his death in 1907.
Early Development in Scotland
Born to George Beverly, a farmer, his early instruction came through home study and evening sessions with a local shoemaker. At age 14, he began an apprenticeship with an Aberdeen watchmaker and optician. During this period, he established his technical credentials as a lensmaker, eventually producing microscope lenses for George Dickie, a professor of botany at the University of Aberdeen.
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He departed for Australia in 1852. Following a brief period working in the goldfields, he relocated to Melbourne to practice watchmaking. By 1858, he had moved to New Zealand, settling in Dunedin to operate his own business. His technical expertise manifested in both horology and analytical geometry; his planimeter, a device for measuring the area of irregular shapes, earned him the Makdougall Brisbane medal from the Royal Scottish Society of Arts in 1865.
Scientific Interests and Bequests
His research interests spanned several disciplines, including astronomy and botany. He constructed a 3-inch telescope to conduct observations and provided support for the development of the Otago Museum. The Beverly-Begg Observatory currently bears his name. Remaining unmarried throughout his life, he bequeathed his estate to the University of Otago upon his death in 1907. These funds continue to support the Beverly Bursaries for undergraduate students enrolled in physics programs.
Fast facts
- Born: 1822, Alford
- Died: 1907, Dunedin
- Citizenship: New Zealand
- Occupations: astronomer, watchmaker, mathematician, geologist, botanist
- Notable invention: The Beverly Clock
- Award: Makdougall Brisbane medal
Questions readers ask
Where is the Beverly Clock located?
It is held in the Department of Physics at the University of Otago.
What is the primary legacy of his estate?
His funds established the Beverly Bursaries to support undergraduate physics students at the University of Otago.
