Historic 1961 Float-Type Tide Gauge Finds New Home at Hong Kong Maritime Museum

11 July 2025

The Hong Kong Observatory (HKO) has loaned a historic float-type tide gauge to the Hong Kong Maritime Museum (HKMM) for display, providing visitors with an opportunity to explore the history of tide measurement in Hong Kong.

Manufactured in 1961, this tide gauge is the oldest device of its kind in the Observatory's collection. It served at the Tai Po Kau Tide Gauge Station from 1962 until 2008. Initially operating purely through mechanical components for measuring sea levels, the instrument was later upgraded with electronic parts to enable real-time data monitoring.

This tide gauge carries decades of technological evolution in Hong Kong’s tide measurement. Don’t forget to check out this remarkable piece of history firsthand when visiting the HKMM!

Ms. F.Y. Lee, Scientific Officer of HKO (left), presented the loan agreement for the tide gauge to Dr. Connie Ng, Head of the Marine Discovery Centre of the HKMM (right).

The float type tide gauge displayed at the HKMM.