Glossary · Mechanism
Shock protection (Incabloc)
A spring-mounted jewel bearing system allowing the balance staff to displace under impact without breaking its pivots.
Explanation
Shock protection mounts the balance's fragile pivots in spring-held jewel settings (Incabloc, Kif, Diashock, Parashock and others) that yield under a blow and return to position. Before its adoption in the 1930s–40s, a dropped watch almost always meant a broken staff. The spring shape visible on the balance cock identifies the system.
In the object catalogue
Catalogued objects whose own source record mentions “Shock protection (Incabloc)”. The quoted line shows where; it is the seller’s or museum’s wording, not independent verification.
Wristwatch
Minerva Cal. 13-20 Chronograph, Frey Era
“Shock Protection Marking: INCABLOC”
Wristwatch
Shanghai A581 Wristwatch
“This Shanghai A581 manual-wind wristwatch dates to circa 1964, inferred by the seller from a 6404A movement marking. It features a Caliber 581 movement with 17 jewels and no sho…”
Wristwatch
Vintage Ladies Rodania Mechanical Wristwatch
“This vintage ladies' mechanical wristwatch by Rodania is dated by the source to circa 1960–1970s. The source reports a 22 mm diameter gold-plated case with a steel back, paired …”
Wristwatch
Tissot Horological Institute of America 14k Yellow Gold Wristwatch
“This 14k yellow gold wristwatch by Tissot dates to circa the 1950s and was produced for the Horological Institute of America. The 34 mm three-body case features faceted lugs and…”
Wristwatch
BWC self-winding wristwatch
“Shock Protection: Incabloc”
Wristwatch
Bifora Unima Chronometer wristwatch, reference 4499
“According to the seller, this vintage German chronometer wristwatch by Bifora, reference 4499, dates from the late 1950s. The 35 mm stainless steel round case houses a manual-wi…”