Bolts: common object, or technological innovation?

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Have you ever looked at a typical household object and wondered about its origin?

Let’s consider the bolt. Is it a “common object” or a masterpiece of engineering without which our world would look different?

According to Bill Eccles, bolt expert, the idea of a threads comes either from Egypt or Archimedes.  Both Archimedes and the Egyptians used the threaded design to raise and lower water in locks, bilge ships, and for crop irrigation. But many consider Greek philosopher Archytas of Tarentum to be the true father of the screw thread.

The unthreaded bolt itself originated in Roman times, with use as door closers.

However, in tandem, the technology of bolt with thread has only been significantly developed in the last 150 years.  During this time, bolts began to be available in standard sizes, mass produced and increased in usage because of the development of mechanical technology during the industrial revolution.  More info here.

So, what do you think?  Bolts – a common household item, or masterpiece of modern & ancient engineering?