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Mechanical Watch

Every part of a wristwatch exploded and animated in sequence, until the escapement finally makes sense.

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How to get the most from it

Mechanical Watch sits in Interactive Explainers under Learn, filed as coffee break.

  • Set aside five to fifteen minutes and give it your proper attention.
  • Use a laptop or desktop computer — we file it as desktop only.
  • It works with the sound off, so it is fine on a train or in a quiet office.
  • No account needed — you can start without signing up.
  • Go in expecting something mesmerising, brainy and beautiful.

About this category: Explainers that use motion, interaction and scrolling to teach what a paragraph never could. The clearest teaching on the internet lives here.

Good for

  • Filling a coffee break properly
  • Watching something hypnotic for a while
  • Giving your brain a workout
  • Looking at something lovely
  • A quiet break at your desk
  • Trying it with zero commitment

Mechanical Watch: quick answers

Is Mechanical Watch free?

Yes. Mechanical Watch is free to use and needs no account.

Do I need an account to use Mechanical Watch?

No. You can use Mechanical Watch without signing up for anything.

Does Mechanical Watch work on a phone?

Not well. We file Mechanical Watch as desktop only, so open it on a laptop or desktop computer.

Is Mechanical Watch safe for work?

Yes, we file it as safe for work. It also works muted.

How long does Mechanical Watch take?

We file it as "Coffee break": Five to fifteen minutes of proper attention.

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