Padre Diego, 15th century Automata

I first discovered this mechanical marvel years ago in a book called "Edison's Eve".

Recently, I came across the podcast done by Radio Lab which I have embedded below.



Glue on Steampunks?

     In his book, "The Invention of Hugo Cabret", Author/Illustrator Brian Selznick has his title character state:

"You know, machines never have any extra parts. They have the exact number and type of parts they need."

     As I read these words to a young apprentice I was struck with a feeling of clarity. Mr. Selznick had put into words a truth I've come to learn myself, but never uttered.
     Mechanical design is conceiving a desired motion and then thinking of the exact number and type of parts needed to produce the result. Simple.
    
     My question then is why is it so many "Steampunks" seem to ignore this truth? How many costumed cavaliers have we seen trying to depict a Steampunk character by simply gluing gears on to fashion items? 
    
    Gears are the work horses of mechanism! - not pretty wheelie things to adorn  a hatband or parasol!
    When my Automaton Army finally does rise up to take over the world, Glue on Steampunks will be at the top of my list for eradication!

Great Cinematic Dastardly Steampunks Number One; Dr. Loveless

Dr. Loveless as depicted by most excellent thespian : Mr. Kennith Brannah

 in the entertaining flicker-"Wild Wild West"

Master of Mechanisms, Would be userper of the American republic and

Lord of a giant spider conveyance. A man to aspire to!