timers and power outages

i just today realized that even mechanical timers apparently need power to keep time. yesterday the power went out just before lights on in the flower room, and came back on right before lights off (whole 12 hour cycle.) when the power came on, the timer started the 12 hour lights on, so now basically my whole cycle has been reversed. i thought the mechanical timer would avoid this, being mechanical and all. so do mechanical timers really need power or am i missing something?

i have got a mechanical timer well had it actually burnt out about 3 hours ago lol but yer they do need power to keep them going unless you get the wind up ones that you twist to the desired time you want it to come on aslong as its within 24 hour

i am ashamed of my oversight...is it tacky to blame the weed?

If you want a timer that will keep time through a power outage look for a digital timer with a battery backup. (example Sylvania SA130)