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This column discusses mechanical watches from an engineer's perspective. For the 54th installment,
"Why has the Swiss lever escapement been dominant for over 200 years?"
We will be discussing this topic.
Previously, I explained Rolex's newly developed "Dynapulse Escapement," but unfortunately, none of the new Rolex models announced on April 14th featured the Dynapulse Escapement... (Tears)
Hoping for new models next year, this time I will explain why the "Swiss lever escapement" has remained dominant for such a long period.
What is a Swiss lever escapement?
An "escapement" is a device that converts the energy of a mainspring into a "constant rhythm."
The Swiss lever escapement uses an anchor-shaped part called a "lever" and a specially shaped gear called an "escape wheel," and as you can see, it is very simple. Most mechanical watches manufactured today adopt this system.
Why has it been used for so long?
There are four main reasons why the Swiss lever escapement has been used for so long.
① Extremely durable
Watches run every day. The Swiss lever escapement is
・Simple in structure
・Resistant to shocks
・Stable over long periods
In short, "it works even if handled somewhat roughly." This is a major factor in its long-standing dominance.
② Stable accuracy
If you want to know the exact time, you might look at your smartphone or a radio-controlled clock. This might be common sense today. However, for luxury mechanical watches, the demand for stable accuracy remains unchanged because they are still "timepieces."
The Swiss lever escapement is strong against temperature changes, changes in position, and changes in lubrication status due to aging, and its accuracy can be said to be relatively stable.
③ Can be mass-produced
This is a particularly important point: no matter how excellent a mechanism is, it's meaningless if it costs an enormous amount of money and time to produce.
In this regard, the Swiss lever has the following advantages:
・Parts are easy to manufacture
・Adjustment methods are well-established
・Expertise is available worldwide
There are clear reasons why it functions as an industry.
④ Repair personnel are available worldwide
Mechanical watches are meant to be used for decades with maintenance. This means that a system with a globally established repair network is more likely to become widespread.
The Swiss lever, being simple in structure, has the advantage that any watchmaker can handle it and parts are readily available.
The essence of the Swiss lever escapement
As I mentioned last time, there are various excellent escapements, such as the "Dynapulse" introduced by Rolex and the "Co-Axial" escapement commercialized by Omega.
However, the fact was that there were weaknesses somewhere: they were complex and difficult to adjust, or new and lacking a track record.
In this respect, the Swiss lever system can be said to be the "only mechanism that scores above average in all categories."
・Accuracy → Good
・Durability → High
・Repairability → High
・Mass production → High
To use an automotive analogy, it's like a "Toyota car" – reliable and with a maintenance network established worldwide.
Personally, I am watching to see how widely Rolex's "Dynapulse Escapement" will spread in the future, but it is unlikely to completely take over the Swiss lever's market share.
Summary
What did you think?
The fact that a technology developed over 200 years ago is still being used as the mainstream today is truly wonderful, and something that is rarely seen in other industries.
While "market trends" that fluctuate in the short term are important, it's also enjoyable to occasionally take the time to consider "why mechanical watches continue to be loved around the world."
We hope this article has been informative for you and has sparked even a little interest in luxury watches! Also, please feel free to ask any questions you may have directly, and we will be happy to answer them thoroughly. We look forward to your visit and inquiries.
Stay tuned for the next installment! See you then!
