Torsten Hiller

Born in Brandenburg an der Havel, Germany, in 1962

My greatest interest has always been in the fascinating natural sciences and in aesthetic precision mechanics. Initially I trained as a skilled craftsman in the areas of mechanics, electrical engineering and electronics, and then several years ago I turned my attention to a topic that has held me firmly under its spell ever since.

The turning point came during a visit to the Mathematical-Physical Salon in Dresden's Zwinger Palace. The building houses a collection of historical timepieces, sundials, terrestrial and celestial globes, and optical, astronomical and geodesic devices from the 16th to 19th centuries.I left the exhibition with great respect for the ancient masters. Since that day I have concerned myself with armillary spheres and sundials.

In order to get in touch with like-minded people and to expand my knowledge of these things, I became a member of the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Chronometrie (German Society for Timekeeping). Several years ago I decided to build armillary spheres and sundials myself. I was determined that they should not only be fully functional, but should also meet demanding standards in terms of the handiwork involved in making them and their artistic appearance. During this period I got to know the construction engineer Norbert Müller. He assisted me greatly. He too is now fascinated by these instruments. Together we founded the CHRONOS-Manufaktur with the aim of combining in these instruments the fields of natural science, mechanical excellence and artistic skill.



back ...