1. Sundials: Sundials were one of the earliest methods of timekeeping. They consisted of a stick (called the gnomon) set up vertically on a flat surface (the dial) marked with hour lines. As the sun moved across the sky, its shadow fell on different hour lines, indicating the time of day.
2. Water Clocks: Water clocks, also known as clepsydras, used the flow of water to measure time. They had a container of water with a small hole at the bottom, so water slowly dripped out. The amount of water that flowed out over a certain period indicated the time passed.
3. Hourglass: Hourglasses worked on a similar principle to water clocks but used sand instead of water. They consisted of two glass bulbs connected by a narrow neck filled with sand. When turned upside down, the sand took a specific amount of time to flow from the top bulb to the bottom, indicating an elapsed time period.
4. Candles: Candles with markings or divisions could also be used as a rough timekeeper. The burning rate of the candle was used to estimate the time passed.
5. Star Observation: In ancient civilizations, people often relied on observing the positions of stars and constellations to determine the time of night and the changing seasons.
6. Mechanical Clocks: As technology advanced, mechanical clocks were developed. These clocks used a system of gears, wheels, and weights or springs to power a mechanism that moved hands to indicate the time. Early mechanical clocks were large and complex, often found in churches or public buildings, but smaller versions eventually became more common household items.
7. Pocket Watches: In the 16th century, the first pocket watches were developed, making it possible for people to carry a portable timepiece with them.
These traditional methods of timekeeping relied on natural phenomena and human ingenuity before the widespread availability of standardized timekeeping systems and accurate, portable clocks and watches that are prevalent today.