Glossary · Mechanism
Column wheel
A vertical stepped wheel controlling the sequencing of chronograph functions.
Explanation
A column wheel is a castellated wheel used in chronographs to control start, stop and reset. Each push of the button indexes the wheel, and the columns lift or drop levers in the correct sequence. Column-wheel chronographs are traditionally regarded as more refined than cam-actuated ones, giving a crisp button feel, but they are more costly to make and adjust. Both designs can work well; servicing chronograph work requires a specialist.
In the object catalogue
Catalogued objects whose own source record mentions “Column wheel”. The quoted line shows where; it is the seller’s or museum’s wording, not independent verification.
Pocket watch
Ami Lecoultre split-seconds chronograph pocket watch movement in working-case
“Open movement side displaying chronograph steel levers, wheels, column wheel, and gold-filled cursive engravings.”
Wristwatch
Heuer 'Big Eye' Stainless Steel Chronograph Wristwatch
“This Heuer chronograph wristwatch, dating to circa 1950, features a 35mm round stainless steel case with a screw-down back. According to Bonhams, it is powered by a 17-jewel man…”
Pocket watch
Swiss Split-Seconds Chronograph Pocket Watch
“Gilt movement bridge plates fitted with polished steel split-seconds chronograph levers, springs, and column wheels”
Wristwatch
Wittnauer Professional Chronograph Ref. 242T Wristwatch
“This stainless steel Wittnauer Professional Chronograph reference 242T dates to circa 1960. The round 38mm case features pump pushers, a fluted crown, and a screw-down back engr…”
Wristwatch
Heuer gold plated and stainless steel manual wind chronograph wristwatch
“Dating to circa 1940 according to the auction catalog, this Heuer manual-wind chronograph wristwatch is housed in a 36mm brushed and polished tonneau-form gold-plated case featu…”
Wristwatch
Vacheron & Constantin 18K gold manual wind chronograph wristwatch, Ref. 4072
“This reference 4072 manual wind chronograph wristwatch by Vacheron & Constantin dates to circa 1945 according to the source. The timepiece is cased in 18K gold measuring 35mm in…”