Gyroscope – Hand-Machined Brass & Aluminum - The Original Fidget Spinner!
The original fidget spinner!
Long before modern fidget spinners became popular, gyroscopes were fascinating scientists, engineers, and curious minds with their remarkable ability to demonstrate the principles of angular momentum and rotational stability.
Our hand-machined desktop gyroscope brings that classic mechanical experience to life with a precision-crafted aluminum frame, solid brass rotor, and stainless steel components.
Designed and manufactured by Butterfield Machine, this compact mechanical gyroscope is as enjoyable to operate as it is to display.
Precision Machined Construction
Each gyroscope is individually machined using traditional machining techniques and quality materials.
- Aluminum Frame: Lightweight, durable construction supporting the rotating brass rotor.
- Solid Brass Rotor: Provides rotational mass and a classic mechanical appearance.
- Stainless Steel Axle: Durable shaft supporting the rotor.
- Brass Adjustment Screws: Tipped with small stainless steel ball bearings for precise contact with the axle.
- Brass Display Base: Includes a removable insert pin for use with the spinning base.
The combination of aluminum, brass, and stainless steel creates a distinctive mechanical instrument that showcases traditional metalworking craftsmanship.
Experience the Physics of Gyroscopic Motion
Gyroscopes have been studied and used for nearly two centuries. In 1852, French physicist Léon Foucault used a gyroscope to demonstrate the Earth's rotation.
Today, gyroscopic principles are used in aviation, navigation, robotics, aerospace systems, and camera stabilization.
Our mechanical desktop gyroscope provides a hands-on way to explore these same principles. Spin the brass rotor and experience the fascinating behavior of a rotating mass as it responds to changes in orientation.
Whether you're an engineer, physics enthusiast, machinist, student, or collector of mechanical curiosities, this gyroscope makes an engaging addition to your desk or workshop.
Includes Brass Stand & Pull-String Starter
Each gyroscope includes:
- Hand-machined aluminum and brass gyroscope
- Brass display and spinning base
- Removable brass insert pin
- Kevlar pull string
- Machined brass pull handle
The included pull-string starter allows you to bring the rotor up to speed and begin exploring gyroscopic motion.
Dimensions & Specifications
- Rotor Diameter: 1.670"
- Overall Height: 2.5"
- Weight: Approximately 140 grams (4.9 oz)
- Frame Material: Aluminum
- Rotor Material: Brass
- Axle Material: Stainless Steel
- Adjustment Screws: Brass with stainless steel ball-bearing tips
- Base Material: Brass
Important Operating Instructions
Do not overtighten the adjustment screws. The stainless steel ball bearings at the screw tips are very small and can be damaged by excessive lateral pressure.
Use only enough adjustment pressure to properly support the rotor while allowing it to spin freely.
A Unique Gift for Engineers & Science Enthusiasts
Looking for an unusual gift for an engineer, machinist, physics teacher, student, or someone who appreciates mechanical craftsmanship?
This desktop gyroscope combines classic scientific principles with precision machining, making it an entertaining hands-on demonstration and an attractive mechanical display.
Traditional craftsmanship. Fascinating physics. The original fidget spinner.
Watch the Gyroscope in Action
Watch our gyroscope demonstration on YouTube in a not-so-great video
