The Birth of a Unique Venture
The inception of the 10,000-year clock traces back to 1995 when visionary computer scientist Danny Hillis first introduced the concept. It wasn’t until 2005 that this ambitious idea caught the attention of Amazon.com Inc. founder Jeff Bezos, a man with a penchant for forward-thinking endeavors.
A Testament to Long-Term Vision
This clock isn’t merely a time-teller; it stands as an emblem of prolonged contemplation and meticulous planning. Hillis has dedicated his craft to this monumental project since as early as 1989, marking each tick on the road to building a clock that will transcend millennia.
Setting the Wheels in Motion
In 2011, Bezos shared a glimpse into the clock’s physical manifestation – a 500-foot-deep hole drilled into the Texan mountain range, a testament to the dedication and persistence required in bringing a pioneering idea to life.
Into the Depths of Innovation
The feat of constructing this marvel is no small task. Reaching a depth of 500 feet with a 12.5-foot diameter shaft, utilizing sophisticated mining techniques, marks just the beginning of a journey towards crafting a timepiece that will endure the trials of time.
Looking to the Future
Designed to tick once a year, with gradual movements symbolizing milestones like the century hand’s motion each passing century and the grand appearance of a cuckoo every millennium, this clock is intended to stand as a symbol of human ingenuity for generations to come.
Investing in Legacy
In Bezos’ commitment of $42 million towards this unparalleled endeavor lies a testament to his belief in the power of long-term thinking. This figure, established in 2011 and unwavering until recent years, underscores the value of investments that transcend the immediate future.
