Dominican father, descended from a noble Genoese family. In 1867, presented his first clock at the Paris clockwork exhibition. Invented a model of constant-force escapement. Also took an interest in precision escapements. Designed the monumental water-clock erected in Rome, on the Pincio, in 1872. A small series of "hydrochronometers"—such as the one at the Istituto e Museo di Storia della Scienza of Florence (XII.25)—was built to his specifications c. 1900. The model, with a striking decorative effect, includes a glass tank that serves as an aquarium. It is inspired by a diversity of concepts, reviving the use of water as a source of motive energy and coupling it with a refined escapement: the constant-force type with a ratchet-wheel and vane mechanism. Embriaco also worked on mechanical projects not strictly related to clockmaking. For example, he invented machines for telegraphy and metalworking. He even conducted research on aerial navigation.