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The Mechanical Aquarium from Ugears is an ingenious saltwater fishbowl, with two pet tropical fish chasing each other around a forest of macroalgae fronds, inside of which hides another small inhabitant of the marine environmenta seahorse!

The fish and algae rotate simultaneously and in parallel, at different speeds, and in different directions, simulating the smooth, undulating rhythms of underwater plant and animal life. The elegant fish look like they are really swimming as they move their heads and tails side-to-side. The Mechanical Aquarium model is unique in that while many Ugears models are propelled by rubber band motors, the Aquarium is driven by a spring, for longer action and greater longevity.

To set the model in motion, wind the knob under the aquarium with about 25 half-turns, flip the switch from “STOP” to “SWIM” mode, then watch as your Mechanical Aquarium comes to life! The mechanism contains an internal pendulum to regulate and smooth the movement. You can stop the model at any time, or just let it go and enjoy the movements of the automaton fish and fronds for about 40 seconds.

The Mechanical Aquarium has 325 pieces, is rated “Medium” level, and has an estimated assembly time of 6 hours. As you build the wooden aquarium, you will learn about the action and interplay of drive gears and driven gears in gear sets, the function of pendulums, and spring-action mechanisms. You will experience the satisfaction of building something beautiful with your own hands, without the need for glue or special tools. Everything you need for this fun DIY project comes right in the box: high-quality plywood boards with precision laser-cut pieces that you snap out then snap together, the metal spring that powers the mechanism, and of course, a set of detailed, illustrated instructions in 11 languages.

Ages 14+