What is a mechanical movement?

A mechanical watch movement is a purely mechanical system that powers the watch, keeping time through the intricate interaction of various components. Unlike quartz movements that rely on a battery and electronic circuitry, mechanical movements operate using energy stored in a mainspring, which is typically wound manually by turning the crown or automatically through the motion of the wearer's wrist.

The main components of a mechanical watch movement include:
- Mainspring: A tightly coiled spring that stores the energy to power the watch.
- Gear Train: A series of interconnected gears that transmit the energy from the mainspring to the escapement at a controlled rate.
- Escapement: A crucial mechanism that regulates the release of energy from the gear train, ensuring the hands move at a consistent pace. Key parts of the escapement include the escape wheel, pallet fork, and balance wheel.
- Balance Wheel: An oscillating wheel that, along with the hairspring, vibrates at a precise frequency, acting as the timekeeping heart of the movement.
- Hairspring: A delicate spiral spring that controls the oscillation of the balance wheel.

Mechanical movements are appreciated for their craftsmanship, the beauty of their intricate mechanics, and the absence of a battery requirement. They represent a long-standing tradition in horology and are often favored by watch enthusiasts for their heritage and the skill involved in their creation and assembly.

At Jowissa, while we also offer quartz timepieces known for their precision and convenience, our mechanical watches showcase the art and complexity of traditional watchmaking. These movements require regular maintenance, including cleaning and lubrication, to ensure optimal performance and longevity. The subtle sweep of the second hand, characteristic of many mechanical watches, is a visual indicator of the movement's intricate operation.