Equatorial
The plane of the shadow-receiving surface is
parallel to the equator.


equatorial
During the fall and winter, the time is read from the face towards the camera. During the spring and summer, the time is read on a similar face on the back of the dial. On the equinoxes, the gnomon will not cast a shadow on either face because the sun will be on the celestial equator.  

bowstring equatorial
Another form of the equatorial dial, often called a "bowstring" equatorial


thew patent
Yet another form, a variation of the "Thew patent"


Armillary Dials

Armillary dials are equatorial dials with extra circles emulating those found on armillary spheres. A true armillary sphere is not a sundial but a model of the heavens. The extra circles on an armillary dial actually hinder timkeeping by blocking the sun at various times.

armillary dial


armillary dial