Co-Axial Escapement

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(koh-AK-see-uhl ih-SKAYP-muhnt)

QUICK ANSWER

George Daniels' innovative escapement reducing friction to enhance precision and minimize lubrication needs in mechanical movements.

What does

Co-Axial Escapement

mean?

The Co-Axial Escapement is an innovative mechanism in watchmaking, designed to improve the precision and longevity of mechanical watches. Invented by English watchmaker George Daniels in 1974, it represents a significant advancement over the traditional lever escapement. The Co-Axial Escapement reduces friction between the components, which is a common issue in conventional escapements. This reduction in friction is achieved through a unique design that utilizes a three-level coaxial wheel system, allowing for a more direct transfer of energy from the mainspring to the balance wheel.

This design minimizes the need for lubrication, which is a major factor in the wear and tear of watch movements. As a result, watches equipped with a Co-Axial Escapement require less frequent servicing and maintain their accuracy over longer periods. Omega, a Swiss luxury watchmaker, was the first to industrialize this technology in the late 1990s, and it has since become a hallmark of their timepieces. The Co-Axial Escapement is celebrated for enhancing the performance and durability of mechanical watches, making it a sought-after feature among horology enthusiasts and collectors who value precision and innovation in watchmaking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the co-axial escapement advantage?

The co-axial escapement reduces friction between components through radial impulse rather than sliding contact, minimizing wear and extending service intervals from 5-7 years to 8-10 years. It maintains accuracy longer and requires less lubrication than traditional lever escapements.

Which brands use co-axial escapements?

Omega exclusively uses co-axial escapements across most of their mechanical watches since 1999, when they licensed George Daniels' invention. While other brands have developed similar low-friction escapements, Omega remains the primary manufacturer of co-axial technology at industrial scale.

Is a co-axial movement more accurate?

Co-axial movements aren't inherently more accurate initially, but they maintain their accuracy longer over time. The reduced friction means less degradation of precision between services. Combined with Omega's METAS certification, many co-axial watches achieve exceptional long-term chronometric performance.

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