The Royal Greenwich Observatory, established in 1675, has long been integral to the regulation of timekeeping in England and the world, serving as a prime meridian. On February 5, 1924, the observatory began transmitting the Greenwich Time Signal, commonly referred to as the 'pips.' The signal consisted of a series of six short tones followed by a longer tone, precisely at the hour to serve as a time reference for both mariners and the general public. The introduction of the Greenwich Time Signal aimed to provide a uniform standard time measure, particularly crucial for scheduling in increasingly interconnected communication and transportation systems.

Prior to the time signal broadcasts, timekeeping relied largely on local practices, which varied significantly. With the rise of railway networks and telegraphy, accurate timekeeping became necessary to prevent accidents and improve efficiency. The observatory's initiative was innovative, reflecting the technological advancements of the early 20th century and the growing need for precise synchronization in daily life. The first broadcast was a simple yet groundbreaking step towards modern timekeeping practices.

As the service continued, it expanded in both reliability and popularity, becoming a cornerstone for those needing accurate time. It facilitated coordination in a variety of sectors including transport, broadcasting, and even personal timekeeping devices. Over the decades, the Greenwich Time Signal has evolved with technology, yet its essence remains an integral part of global timekeeping, with its sounds still widely recognized today.