The Fascination of Ruby Movements in Watchmaking
Introduction to Movement Jewels:
In the world of horology, movement jewels, commonly known as functional diamonds, play a pivotal role. Classified into various types, these jewels serve as bearings for wheels and axles, offering reduced friction and enhanced longevity for the watch movement.
Types of Movement Jewels:
1. **”Jewel Bearings”** used as pivot points.
2. **”Capstones”** acting as bearing surfaces to limit axial movement.
3. **”Endstones”** for the balance wheel’s pivots.
4. **”Pallet Stones”** and **”Roller Jewels”** in the escapement mechanism.
Ruby Movements Explained:
Ruby movements, also referred to as ruby bearings, utilize synthetic rubies to support the movement’s gears. These synthetic rubies, mainly composed of aluminium oxide, share properties with their natural counterparts, offering durability and reducing wear over time. The use of ruby jewels in movements dates back to the 1700s, significantly enhancing the movement’s longevity by reducing friction.
Jewel Count in Watch Movements:
The number of jewels in a watch movement indicates the complexity and functionality of the timepiece. While a higher jewel count often suggests a more elaborate mechanism, it’s crucial to recognize that complexity alone doesn’t define the quality of a movement.
1. **”Up to 25 Jewels”** are primarily functional, serving essential purposes like automatic winding and calendar mechanisms.
2. The basic setup includes jewels for the gear train and escapement, with additional jewels for the automatic winding system and calendar functions, if present.
Ruby Movements – Beyond the Technical:
Ruby movements are not just about functionality; they also reflect the aesthetic preferences and craftsmanship skills in watch design. The presence of rubies within a movement is a testament to the meticulous engineering and sophisticated technology behind the creation of a timepiece.
Conclusion:
While the quantity of jewels in a movement is an indicator of a watch’s complexity, it’s the precise application and integration of these jewels that truly enhance a timepiece’s performance and value. Ruby movements stand as a hallmark of quality, combining the beauty of jewels with the precision of mechanical engineering to create watches of exceptional quality and longevity.
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