On 19 January, 1762, the first marine chronometer, John Harrison's H4, arrived aboard Deptford in Port Royal, Jamaica. After 28 days on the high seas, H4 lost just five seconds. Finally, after Centuries of uncertainty, it was now possible for sailors to accurately navigate the seas. While it is simple enough to determine one's latitude, the determination of one's longitudinal position represents a far greater challenge, requiring precision timekeeping.

Mick Dawson, the famed British adventurer, relies on modern satellite navigation on his expeditions. However, his back-up instruments consist of a sextant and a Kobold wrist instrument. Mick wears the USS Pittsburgh Chronograph, a modern maritime navigation tool.

In 2001, Mick and his brother Steve rowed across the Atlantic Ocean, from Tenerife to Barbados. Two years later, Mick ventured on an adventure of epic proportions. He attempted to row across the Pacific Ocean from Japan to San Francisco -solo and unsupported! The expedition was wiped out by a typhoon, causing extensive damage to Mick's boat, Mrs D.

However, keeping the spirit for adventure, Mick decided to attempt the 6,000-mile crossing again in 2004. The voyage was abruptly terminated after Mrs D capsized on Mick's 109th day on the open water. After having traveled more than 4,000 miles, Mick was not pleased about the set-back. His strong will and determination will likely lead him to embark on yet another Pacific crossing in the future.

For more information on Mick Dawson, and to track his future progress, please visit the 2004 Gold Gate Endeavour website by clicking here.