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Model of Silent Escapement

Specifications

Model of Silent Escapement

Category

Science and Technology

Classification

CHENHALL - Tools & Equipment for Science & Technology - Timekeeping T&E - Component, Timepiece
CHENHALL - Communication Objects - Documentary Objects - Other Documents - Model

Object Origin
Model Maker:

Samelius, Mr. William H.

Date Original design:

1850

Date Created:

C. 1939

Physical Characteristics

Object Description: Rectangular three (3)-dimensional representation of mechanical equipment. Two rectangular white metal sheets are held together with gold nuts and bolts at each corner to be the front and back. The sides are open and expose the various gears and equipment held within. At top is a small center bar with curved ends. A silver with gold edge circular pendulum extends below and swings left to right. At viewer's left is a small wire attached to the face...

Materials:

metal

Marks: On plaque: "SILENT ESCAPEMENT/ FOR NIGHT CLOCK/ ITALIAN 1850"

Measurements: Object:
    Height: 6 in, Width: 4.75 in, Depth: 2.25 in
    Weight: 1.8 lbs

Credit

Gift of Elgin National Watch Company, 42.48.35

Display Status

Not On View

Model of Silent Escapement

About: Model of Silent Escapement

About: Model of Silent Escapement

An escapement is a mechanical device found in clocks and watches that helps keep track of time. It converts the energy from a power source, such as a spring or weight, into distinct increments of ticks or beats that keep time. The escapement also serves to prevent the gears found within the escapement from turning too quickly, ensuring that timekeeping operates accurately and consistently. When they were first developed in the 13th century, they began replacing more rudimentary time-keeping devices such as sundials and water clocks. Dutch mathematician and astronomer Christian Huygens introduced the pendulum escapement in 1656 which provided clocks with substantially increased accuracy. The historical significance of escapements extends beyond the science of timekeeping by influencing the fields of engineering and physics through the principles of mechanics and the transfer of energy.


Various types of escapements have been developed over the centuries, each improving precision and reliability in horology. This is a model of an Italian escapement for a night clock developed around 1850. Silent escapements were specifically designed for night clocks because they were able to minimize the ticking sounds associated with traditional escapements. The quieter operation came from incorporating damping materials or constructing a more streamlined mechanism. The model was a teaching aid made by William Samelius (1873-1961) who was a master clockmaker and Dean of American Watchmakers at the Elgin Watchmaker’s College in Elgin, Illinois which opened in 1920 and permanently closed in 1960.

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Model of Silent Escapement

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