The Greeks had impressive gears as well. I suppose one could write a steampunk novel of a Hellenistic Age with fully developed power sources (steam) and computers (differential engines).
Perhaps there is some truth to the saying that the world was set back a thousand(?) years by the burning of the Library of Alexandria.
The link goes to a good quality video of the rock group RUSH’s 2011 concert and new song “Caravan”. Steam punk time machine, steam powered ballons, and gears. Saw on your profile that you had a high “nerd and weirdness quotient” and perhaps you might enjoy?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R3JAAPIFhwM