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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Calibre database

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Choose up to three movements to set their recorded specifications side by side. Rows where the records differ are highlighted; values are copied from each calibre's own page.

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Specifications

FieldEnglish full-plate fusee movement
Makerenglish-provincial-trade
CountryEngland
Periodc. 1700 to the late nineteenth century
DiameterVaries; generally large by Continental standards
HeightSubstantially thicker than contemporary bar movements
JewelsUnjewelled on plain work; jewelled to the escapement or more on better watches
FrequencyTypically 14,400 to 18,000 vph depending on date and escapement
Power reserveApprox. 30 hours
WindingKey wind through the case back or dial, later keyless on the latest examples
SettingKey set, later pendant set
EscapementVerge on early work; English right-angle lever on nineteenth-century examples
BalancePlain steel balance early; compensation balances on better later work
ComplicationsSubsidiary seconds on later examples, Repeating work on a minority of watches
ArchitectureA continuous top plate over the whole train, with a fusee and chain equalising mainspring torque and, on most examples, a pierced and engraved balance cock. The construction is the defining form of the English trade and the direct counterpart to the Continental bar movement.