It's astonishing how sophisticated and precise a technical system is that makes a clock work. For most people, it's self-evident, even banal, that a clock displays the exact time. But if you take a look inside a clock, you'll gain fascinating insights into the clever and complex construction that ensures the correct time is displayed.
How does a mechanical watch work?
Mechanical watches can be found in virtually all sizes and variations – from wristwatches and pocket watches to tower clocks. Their operating principle is based on mechanical energy, which is generated by winding the crown and transmitted through an ingenious gear train. When the crown is wound, the winding stem, winding wheels, and the ratchet wheel of the barrel all move. This ratchet wheel contains the spring core, which transfers the mechanical energy to the spring in the barrel. This spring is the energy storage device of a mechanical watch.
The spring then transfers this energy via several gears to the minute wheel, the third wheel, and the seconds wheel. To prevent the second hand, in particular, from moving too quickly, the escapement wheel slows the movement with the help of the anchor and balance wheel. Incidentally, the interplay of the anchor and balance wheel also creates the characteristic ticking of the watch that we hear.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of a mechanical watch compared to other types of watches?
A clear advantage of mechanical watches is that, unlike other types of watches such as quartz watches, they don't require electrical power from batteries, making them significantly better for the environment. However, if you value the importance of always displaying the exact time with absolute precision, you might be better off with a quartz watch or other models – because mechanical watches always lose a few seconds per day.
Some people may find it annoying to have to wind a mechanical watch every day. This problem is eliminated with an automatic watch, for example, which winds itself. However, unlike mechanical watches, automatic watches often have to compromise on aesthetics, as they require an additional rotor, which makes a very slim design impossible. Another factor that contributes to the aesthetic appeal of a mechanical watch is its certain retro charm, the appeal of a technology that has worked for centuries.
Each type of watch has its advantages and disadvantages; ultimately, choosing the right watch depends primarily on the wearer's personal, individual preferences and the intention behind purchasing a watch.
