A Steady Pulse

I located a metallic disc resting flat on the dark wood. Step one: test stability. I pressed my curved hand against the fluted steel crown on its side. The casing remained firm. Step two: inspect internal motion. Beneath the glass face, a thin red hand advances once per second with a precise, metallic click. Twelve pale markers ring the perimeter. I leaned close, resting one palm against the cool crystal. The rhythmic oscillation of the internal gear transfers cleanly through the surface. A dependable mechanical chronometer. I stood beside the dial, tracking three full rotations.