In the 19th century, public clocks with a precision time indicator were in great demand. Two systems vied with each other: electricity and air pressure. The first master clocks to give electrical impulses to secondary clocks left a bit to be desired in terms of dependability. For this reason, some people felt that air pressure was better suited, but why? “It [the compressed air] is not that sensitive, and it is less temperamental.” In addition, it was said that air pressure embodied the masculine principle of strength and reliability, while electricity was feminine, and therefore sensitive. In a male-dominated society, air pressure was given priority—as was the case with this pneumatic secondary clock, which was part of a clock system driven by air pressure.
Indeed, male ideals cannot be applied to the forces of nature without further ado. Hence, it came about that electricity prevailed in clock technology. Girl power proved to be more effective than “macho airs”.
Pneumatically driven secondary clock, H. Letorey, Paris, c. 1880, Inv. 2007-110