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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Glossary · Mechanism

Remontoire

A small intermediate spring or weight, rewound at intervals, that delivers constant force to the escapement independently of train torque.

Explanation

A remontoire isolates the escapement from variations in the going train's torque. The train periodically rewinds a small spring or raises a small weight; that store alone drives the escape wheel or impulse element. Because the escapement always works against the same small force, changes in mainspring state, train friction or wind on exposed hands do not reach the oscillator directly.

Gravity remontoires are associated with precision turret clocks — the double three-legged gravity escapement of the Westminster clock is the famous example — and spring remontoires with precision pendulum clocks and some chronometers. Rewind intervals range from seconds to minutes. A remontoire is a strong marker of precision intent, but its presence in a description must come from the movement's construction, not from a regulator-style dial or a maker's reputation.

Record the remontoire type and rewind interval where documented. Erratic behaviour at the rewind point is a service matter; the mechanism's timing is part of the movement's design and should not be altered.

Sources & references

  1. de Carle, D., Practical Watch Repairing — technical further reading; exact procedures require calibre documentation
  2. Reymondin et al., The Theory of Horology — construction and terminology further reading

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

Distinctions at a glance

FormTypical contextLimit
Gravity remontoirePrecision turret clocksNot a clock gravity escapement by itself
Spring remontoirePrecision pendulum clocks, some chronometersNot maintaining power
Rewind intervalSeconds to minutes by designNot an owner setting
Absence of remontoireOrdinary going trainNot evidence of poor quality

What to record

  • Identify spring or gravity form from construction evidence.
  • Note the documented rewind interval.
  • Keep remontoire observations separate from maintaining power, which acts during winding.

Do not wind or adjust a remontoire-equipped precision clock without its service documentation; the rewind timing is calibrated.

In the object catalogue

Catalogued objects whose own source record mentions “Remontoire”. The quoted line shows where; it is the seller’s or museum’s wording, not independent verification.