Which inventor is credited with the flat balance spring in clockmaking?

The inventor credited with the development of the flat balance spring is Christian Huygens. He made significant advancements in horology, particularly in the 17th century. Huygens's invention was crucial in enhancing the accuracy of timekeeping devices. The flat balance spring, also known as the hairspring, allowed watches and clocks to maintain a more consistent rate by regulating the oscillation of the balance wheel. This innovation was pivotal in the evolution of more precise timepieces, which laid the groundwork for modern watchmaking.

Other figures mentioned, such as Galileo Galilei, Isaac Newton, and Nicolas Copernicus, made monumental contributions to science and mathematics, but they did not specifically focus on horological advancements like Huygens did with the balance spring. Huygens's contributions directly impacted the mechanics of timekeeping, which is why he is recognized for this particular invention in clockmaking.