This week I brought the test-plates back out in order to test the escapement.
A clock escapement does two essential things. It uses the very measured swing of the pendulum to release the clock train in controlled increments, while simultaneously giving a tiny push to the pendulum itself, so that the beat goes on. There are many of types of escapements today, but this is my favorite. It’s called an Arnfield Gravity Escapement.
My affinity for this type of tick-ticker is both aesthetic, and functional. I love the multi-stage clicks that it makes, and it’s layout gives me a lot to work with artistically. But I’ve also found them to be great timekeepers. Perpetual No.1 has this type of escapement on it, and it’s performed spectacularly so far.
I’ll spare the technical details, since I’m aware that most people reading this are not clockmakers. However if you are, and want some more info about this particular type of escapement, don’t hesitate to ask. I’ve used it in a handful of clocks to date, and there are certainly a few key things that I’ve learned, and can share with you.
Now…to put this into the clock frame with the rest of the moving pieces!
