Thread by @sciencemuseum, A mid-century icon, the Teasmade—an automatic tea-maker and alarm clock

A mid-century icon, the Teasmade—an automatic tea-maker and alarm clock—now has enormous nostalgia value. But the story of this retro machine actually goes back over 100 years—and forward into our automated future.

Goblin Teasmade model D25B, 1966

A mid-century icon, the Teasmade—an automatic tea-maker and alarm clock—now has enormous nostalgia value. But the story of this retro machine actually goes back over 100 years—and forward into our automated future. Goblin Teasmade model D25B, 1966

The first tea-making machine was invented in 1891, followed by an 'Automatic Tea-Making Apparatus' patented in 1892. This machine required a pilot light and was lit by gas—not a great contraption to have next to you while you sleep.

"A Clock Which Makes Tea", 1902-10

The first tea-making machine was invented in 1891, followed by an 'Automatic Tea-Making Apparatus' patented in 1892. This machine required a pilot light and was lit by gas—not a great contraption to have next to you while you sleep. "A Clock Which Makes Tea", 1902-10

These early machines signalled the beginning of a trend for domestic automation which has never really gone away, continuing right up to today's internet-connected smart home technology. Discover more: https://bit.ly/3e5ex8P

Teasmades: From clockwork cuppas to the smart home | Science Museum

The story of the iconic Teasmade goes back over 100 years, offering an early vision of the modern smart home.

https://bit.ly/3e5ex8P

You can follow @sciencemuseum.

Tip: mention @twtextapp on a Twitter thread with the keyword “unroll” to get a link to it.

Latest Threads Unrolled: