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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Complication · Calendar & astronomy

Fly-back Date

Partially verified

A date mechanism that can be reset to the start of the month instantly at any time.

Definition

A date mechanism that can be reset to the start of the month instantly at any time.

Historical origin

Different from a standard retrograde, which only resets at the end of the month.

How it works

Uses a dedicated pusher to trigger the reset lever, allowing the user to quickly correct or test the mechanism.

Pocket watch context

None.

Wristwatch context

Found in some specialized calendar watches.

Identification

  • Date hand that jumps back to 1 when a button is pressed

Servicing notes

Ensure the reset lever does not jam against the date cam.

General guidance only. Complicated mechanisms should be assessed and serviced by a qualified watchmaker or clockmaker specialist, not adjusted at home.

Diagram

date ring, thirty-one positionsdate aperturedriving wheel and jumper
Schematic: calendar work under the dial. An outline schematic drawn to show the arrangement of the parts discussed here. It is not a dimensioned working drawing and does not depict a particular maker's calibre.

Sources & references

  1. de Carle, D., Watch and Clock Encyclopedia
  2. Britten, F. J., Old Clocks and Watches and Their Makers
  3. Horological Journal (British Horological Institute), technical articles

Where sources disagree, the disagreement is stated rather than resolved silently.