INDICATOR

In watchmaking, an indicator is a Display device dedicated to a specific piece of information, distinct from the current time. It can take the form of a Hand, a Disc, a sector, an Aperture / Window or a Counter, and is distinguished from the main display by its specialized function. Among the most common: the Power reserve indicator, which signals the energy remaining in the Barrel; the indicator for the Date / Calendar; the Moon phase indicator; the Day/night indicator, useful for dual time zone watches; or even the function state indicator (chime on/off, winding/time-setting). Mechanically, an indicator is connected to the component it conveys via a gear train, a Differential, a Cam, or a Finger and Star (wheel) system, depending on whether it displays a continuous or jumping value. Well designed, it makes technical data legible and enriches the watch’s interface without hindering time reading. The term is generic and is always specified by the value it indicates.