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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Complication · Timing

Independent Winding

Partially verified

A movement with two separate barrels and trains, one for timekeeping and one for complications.

Definition

A movement with two separate barrels and trains, one for timekeeping and one for complications.

Historical origin

Ensures that operating a complication (like an alarm or strike) does not drain the energy needed for timekeeping.

How it works

Two crowns or a single crown that winds in two directions.

Two separate power reserve indicators are often present.

Pocket watch context

Found in 'Grande Sonnerie' and 'Chime' pocket watches.

Wristwatch context

Found in the Jaeger-LeCoultre 'Duometre' series.

Identification

  • Two power reserve scales
  • Winding in both directions

Servicing notes

The two trains are usually synchronized by a shared escapement but powered separately.

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

Diagram

crownsliding clutchsetting wheelswinding pinion and ratchet
Schematic: keyless winding and hand setting. 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.