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Chronometer Escapement

A form of escapement in which the impulse is given direct from the escape wheel to the impulse roller on the balance staff, the locking being accomplished on a separate piece known as the detent, from which it is sometimes called detent escapement. The detent is made of two principal forms which constitute the two varieties of this escapement. The one shown in Fig. 61 is the pivoted detent which is sometimes termed the bascule escapement by foreign makers, while Fig. 62 shows the spring detent. This escapement appears to have been invented by Pierre LeRoy, in the year 1766. In the earliest forms the unlocking, or as it is sometimes called, the gold spring was mounted upon the balance staff, but was subsequently transferred to the detent, similar to the present form, also the escape wheel was sometimes made with two sets of teeth similar to the one used in the duplex. From its first inception up to the present time it has passed through many forms and modifications, until it has finally arrived at a stage where it approaches perfection very closely when made by the best makers. When well made this form of escapement leaves but little to be desired for timekeeping; but while its action is simple, the application of the principles underlying its construction must be correctly applied, as well as that the workmanship be of the highest quality.