Gear Train

The series of gears inside a watch movement that transmits energy from the mainspring to the escapement, ultimately driving the hands to display the time. The gear train plays a vital role in regulating the speed and efficiency of the movement.

Key components of the gear train:

• Center Wheel: Connects directly to the mainspring barrel and drives the minute hand.
• Third Wheel: Transfers energy from the center wheel to the fourth wheel.
• Fourth Wheel: Drives the second hand in most movements.
• Escape Wheel: Works with the escapement to regulate energy release to the balance wheel.

Functions of the gear train:

• Energy Transfer: Ensures the controlled delivery of energy from the mainspring to the escapement.
• Time Regulation: Maintains precise intervals for the motion of the hands by controlling the rate of energy flow.