A nocturnal is an instrument used to determine the local time based on the relative positions of two or more stars in the night sky. Sometimes called a "horologium nocturnum" (time instrument for night) or nocturlabe (in French and occasionally used by English writers), it is related to the astrolabe and sun dial. Knowing the time is important in piloting for calculating tides and some nocturnals incorporate tide charts for important ports.
Nocturnal appeared at the beginning of the 16th century and began to disappear in the 18th century, coinciding with the development of mechanical clocks.
The nocturnal is made of three concentric brass disks, which can turn freely with respect to each other
around a central ring. Superimposed over these three disks is a rule or index arm which extends past the edge of the largest disc and which can turn freely over the ring.
Dimensions of the nocturnal body : height 18 cm
length 19 cm
width 0,5 cm
Dimensions of the wooden base: height 2,5 cm
length 8 cm
width 6 cm
Shipping from Greece
Processing time
3-5 business days
Estimated shipping times
- North America : 5 - 10 business days
- Europe : 3 - 7 business days
- Australia, New Zealand and Oceania : 8 - 20 business days
- Asia Pacific : 8 - 20 business days
- Latin America and the Caribbean : 7 - 20 business days
I'll do my best to meet these shipping estimates, but can't guarantee them. Actual delivery time will depend on the shipping method you choose.
Customs and import taxes
Buyers are responsible for any customs and import taxes that may apply. I'm not responsible for delays due to customs.
Payment Options
Returns & Exchanges
I gladly accept returns and exchanges
Just contact me within: 5 days of delivery
Ship items back to me within: 7 days of delivery
I don't accept cancellations
But please contact me if you have any problems with your order.
The following items can't be returned or exchanged
Because of the nature of these items, unless they arrive damaged or defective, I can't accept returns for:
- Custom or personalized orders
- Perishable products (like food or flowers)
- Digital downloads
- Intimate items (for health/hygiene reasons)
Conditions of return
Buyers are responsible for return shipping costs. If the item is not returned in its original condition, the buyer is responsible for any loss in value.