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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Complication · Timing

1/100th Second Chronograph

Partially verified

A chronograph capable of measuring and displaying intervals as small as one-hundredth of a second.

Definition

A chronograph capable of measuring and displaying intervals as small as one-hundredth of a second.

Historical origin

Pushes the limits of mechanical frequency and energy management.

How it works

Usually requires a very high-frequency escapement (360,000 vph) or a secondary high-speed train for the chronograph.

The central hand often rotates once per second.

Pocket watch context

None.

Wristwatch context

Produced by Zenith (El Primero 21) and TAG Heuer.

Identification

  • A central hand that spins at a blurring speed (1 rps)
  • Scale graduated to 100

Servicing notes

Extremely high energy consumption; usually has a very short power reserve for the chronograph train.

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

Related photographs

Large Silver Swiss Centre Seconds Chronograph – 1894
Large Silver Swiss Centre Seconds Chronograph – 1894 — WatchMuseum.org, © WatchMuseum.org, used with permission. WatchMuseum.org catalogue record
Large Silver Swiss Centre Seconds Chronograph – 1894
Large Silver Swiss Centre Seconds Chronograph – 1894 — WatchMuseum.org, © WatchMuseum.org, used with permission. WatchMuseum.org catalogue record
Large Silver Swiss Centre Seconds Chronograph – 1894
Large Silver Swiss Centre Seconds Chronograph – 1894 — WatchMuseum.org, © WatchMuseum.org, used with permission. WatchMuseum.org catalogue record

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

  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.