Which quotation from a history of the world in 100 objects best reveals the historical significance of the chronometer? the chronometer for the first time allowed absolutely accurate charting of the oceans, with all that implied for establishing safe and rapid shipping routes. darwin's voyage on the beagle and his subsequent work on evolution pushed human an unthinkably distant past. geologists had already demonstrated that the earth was far older than previously believed, undermining the calculation made by archbishop usher. to clockmakers like earnshaw, precise and reliable clocks and watches became ever more affordable.