Those who have had a chance to independently understand the structure of a mechanical watch probably know that stones are used in them. The number of these elements is indicative of the quality of the watch. This indicator is so important that very often the number of stones is even indicated on the dial. Why are stones used in watches?
What are stones used in watches
The efficient operation of the watch mechanism is directly related to the number of stones. Experienced watchmakers will tell you a secret: stones can significantly reduce harmful friction between individual parts of the movement.
The more stones there are in the watch, the higher their resistance to wear. This statement was even reflected in the standards adopted at one time in Switzerland.
The first mechanical watches using rubies were made at the beginning of the 18th century. The English watchmaker Gray was one of the first to figure out how to reduce the coefficient of friction between the parts of the watch mechanism. During his life, this master made several thousand watches. And each one used rubies.
However, in modern quality watches, stones are used not only to reduce friction. Modern materials from which watch parts are made are distinguished by high characteristics, and therefore they are able to compete with rubies in eliminating harmful effects. Why do stones remain an essential element in the design of a watch movement?
Secrets of watch stones
The fact is that the pins of the axes of mechanical watches have an extremely small diameter. The stones are able to reduce the pressure on the parts and keep the supporting elements intact. In addition, stones are not afraid of the corrosion inherent in metals, so the polished surface of artificial ruby retains its working properties much longer.
It is the artificial ruby that is best suited for watch movements. This stone is resistant to wear, has considerable hardness, and is easy to grind and polish.
The use of rubies guarantees the smooth operation of the mechanism for a long time without any deformation.
What is the optimal number of jewels in a watch? This directly depends on the complexity of the mechanism that sets the arrows in motion. For example, in modern watches of the electronic-mechanical type, which have additional functions, fifteen or more stones are used.
It should be remembered, however, that in the pursuit of prestige, individual manufacturers use an unjustifiably large number of stones in the construction of watches, which in fact is not caused by real necessity. This makes it possible to proudly declare that this watch is of excellent quality. If you do not want to overpay for such a dubious advantage, remember that the total number of stones in a quality watch must exactly match the number of axes used in the movement.
