The intricate world of pre-electric automatons and clockwork computers has long captured the imagination of enthusiasts around the globe. These masterpieces of mechanical engineering, from the ancient Antikythera mechanism to the remarkable Blaise Bontems, continue to astound us with their tantalizing complexity.

In a captivating hourlong documentary, Professor Simon Schaffer takes us on a journey through history, breathing life into these extraordinary creations. Traversing the landscapes of Europe, Simon unearths the fascinating stories behind these machines and presents us with a glimpse of their awe-inspiring capabilities.

Among the numerous examples showcased in the film, we encounter an entire functioning automaton city, an astonishing testament to the boundless imagination and technical prowess of its creators. Witnessing a small boy meticulously programmed to write and a device adept at playing chess, we are left in awe of the ingenuity behind these clockwork marvels.

Each machine visited by Simon is a testament to the astonishing level of technical sophistication and ambition that the craftsmen of yesteryears possessed. Despite the passage of time, their creations continue to astound us, holding a unique place in the annals of human ingenuity.

It is worth noting that the history of technology is often a complex tapestry, with multiple factors converging to shape its evolution. While steam turbines, such as the Aeolipile invented by the Greeks and Romans, hinted at the possibilities of mechanical power, limitations in metalworking and various other challenges hindered the development of modern engines.

However, it is also crucial to differentiate between true automatons and other mechanical marvels. The Mechanical Turk, for instance, though fascinating in its own right, is not an automaton per se, but a mechanical illusion intended to simulate a human chess player.

As we delve into the mesmerizing realm of clockwork devices and automation, we are left with a profound sense of wonder. These creations embody the relentless human quest to replicate the intricacies of living beings through a mosaic of gears, levers, and springs. They stand as silent testimonials to the ingenuity and wonder that perennially reside at the intersection of art, science, and technology.