Escapement
The escapement is the heart of a mechanical watch. It performs two jobs simultaneously: it allows the gear train to advance one step at a time, and it delivers an impulse to the balance wheel to maintain its oscillation.
Swiss lever escapement
Refined by Thomas Mudge around 1755 and dominant in mechanical watchmaking since the 19th century. Reliable, serviceable and tolerant of manufacturing variation - which is why nearly all production calibres use it.
Co-axial escapement
Invented by George Daniels and patented in 1980. Uses radial impulses on two coaxial wheels, reducing sliding friction and theoretically reducing service-interval lubrication needs. Adopted industrially by Omega from 1999 (calibre 2500) and now found across most Omega mechanical watches.
Silicon and modern materials
Silicon escape wheels and balance springs (introduced by Patek Philippe, Rolex's Syloxi, Ulysse Nardin's Innovision) are antimagnetic, low-friction and dimensionally stable. They cannot be repaired - only replaced - which has provoked debate about long-term serviceability.
Key facts
- ▸Swiss lever: standard since the 19th century
- ▸Co-axial: Daniels, patented 1980; Omega industrial use from 1999
- ▸Silicon components are antimagnetic but non-repairable