Uffenbach's "Zeitweiser" published 1598

TL;DR

Uffenbach's 1598 printed diptych sundial is a historically significant device featuring the oldest known gnomonic world map, zodiac signs, bright stars, and an almucantar, representing an early integration of astronomy and cartography.

Contribution

This paper presents an analysis of Uffenbach's 1598 sundial, highlighting its innovative features and historical importance as a precursor to later sundial designs.

Findings

Contains the oldest known gnomonic world map

Includes zodiac signs and bright stars

Constructed for Frankfurt's polar height

Abstract

In the year 1598 Philipp Uffenbach published a printed diptych sundial, which is a forerunner of Franz Ritters horizantal sundial. Uffenbach's sundial contains apart from the usual information on a sundial ascending signs of the zodiac, several brigthest stars, an almucantar and most important the oldest gnomonic world map known so far. The sundial is constructed for the polar height of 50 1/6 degrees, the height of Frankfurt/Main the town of his citizenship.