Complication · Timing
Diablotine (Lightning Seconds)
Partially verifiedA hand that rotates very rapidly, usually once per second, to show fractions of a second.
Definition
A hand that rotates very rapidly, usually once per second, to show fractions of a second.
Historical origin
Also known as foudroyante, but the term diablotine is often used for the specific 1/5th or 1/6th second display.
How it works
Driven directly off the escape wheel or fourth wheel through high-ratio gearing.
Consumes significant energy, usually requiring its own power source or a very strong mainspring.
Pocket watch context
Found in high-grade nineteenth-century chronographs.
Wristwatch context
Rare and visually dynamic wristwatch complication.
Identification
- A small dial with a hand spinning once per second
Servicing notes
High wear potential on the diablotine arbors; requires high-grade synthetic oils.
General guidance only. Complicated mechanisms should be assessed and serviced by a qualified watchmaker or clockmaker specialist, not adjusted at home.
Related photographs
No confidently matched photograph of this subject has been found yet. These photographs show a closely related record, and are not examples of the type described on this page.
Sources & references
- de Carle, D., Watch and Clock Encyclopedia
- Britten, F. J., Old Clocks and Watches and Their Makers
- Horological Journal (British Horological Institute), technical articles
Where sources disagree, the disagreement is stated rather than resolved silently.