Escape Wheel
The toothed wheel in an escapement that releases energy to the regulating organ in precisely controlled increments.
Also known as: escapement wheel, escape-wheel
Definition
The escape wheel is the final wheel of the going train and a key part of the escapement. In a Swiss lever escapement its specially shaped teeth alternately lock against and receive release from the pallet jewels. Each unlocking allows the wheel to advance by a controlled amount while delivering an impulse through the pallet fork to the balance system. This stop-and-release action prevents the mainspring from discharging freely and converts the gear train's continuous torque into timed increments.
Why it matters
The escape wheel is where the continuously driven gear train becomes controlled by the oscillator. Its tooth geometry, material, lubrication and interaction with the pallets directly affect efficiency and reliable timekeeping.