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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Glossary · Mechanism

Chronometer escapement (detent)

A detached escapement giving direct, unbuffered impulse to the balance, used chiefly in marine chronometers.

Explanation

The spring or pivoted detent releases the escape wheel once per balance vibration, giving very high theoretical accuracy at the cost of fragility, since it has no safety mechanism against shock. It is essentially unknown in pocket watches carried on the person.