Astrochronometer

An Astrochronometer is a timekeeping device used by Astronavigators to assist with determinining their exact position within the galaxy. At their core, they are simply a very accurate mechanical timepeice, designed to operate in unpredictable gravitational environments. Due to the complexity of the device, reading an astrochronometer can be a difficult task to those who are not well versed in its operation. Understanding an Astrochronometer, and how to use it to triangulate a position is a critical skill to navigation in space.

Appearance
Most astrochronometers take the form of an ornamented wooden cabinet, with a glass window in the front which reveals the internal mechanism. They usually have an expanded box section at the top, which houses the circular ceramic face that acts as the output for the mechanism. The mechanism itself appears complex, but is composed primarily of a gyrotourbillon mechanism and a series of reducing gears that control the rotation rates of the various hands.