Watch Movements | Horological Inquiries

Q: What is the difference between an escapement and a balance wheel?

The balance wheel is the oscillator acting as a pendulum, while the escapement is the brake mechanism that gives energy to the balance and releases the gear train one tick at a time.

Q: Why do mechanical watches lose or gain time daily?

Variations in temperature, gravity (positional changes), shock, and the diminishing torque of the mainspring as it unwinds all impact precision.

What is the difference between an escapement and a balance wheel?

The balance wheel acts as the oscillator (much like a pendulum), determining the speed of time. The escapement is the brake mechanism that feeds impulse energy into the balance wheel while releasing the gear train a fraction of a millimeter per beat.

Why do mechanical watches lose or gain time daily?

Precision is affected by environmental variables: temperature fluctuations causing metal expansion, changes in mainspring torque as the barrel unwinds, and gravitational drag depending on the resting position of the caliber.

What is the purpose of synthetic rubies (jewels)?

Synthetic sapphires and rubies provide incredibly hard, ultra-low friction pivot points for the rapidly spinning steel pinions of the gear train, virtually eliminating wear.

What defines a 'Grand Complication'?

While there is no strict industry definition, it generally requires a caliber to contain at least three highly complex features from different groups: typically a minute repeater (acoustics), a perpetual calendar (astronomical), and a split-seconds chronograph (timing).

What does the Geneva Seal (Poinçon de Genève) signify?

It is an independent quality and origin seal mandated by the Canton of Geneva. It legally enforces strict guidelines regarding the flawless hand-finishing of every single component within the movement, regardless of whether that component is visible.