Figure 1: Exploded view of an assembled balance wheel
It is the component that connects the hairspring to the balance cock.
Usually made of brass, the stud takes different forms depending on the construction. In general, it consists of a mainly cylindrical part that is either drilled or slotted. The hole or slot is used to receive the outer end of the hairspring, which is secured by a small brass pin, or alternatively glued or crimped.
The upper part of the stud includes a guide to ensure correct angular positioning when it is attached to the balance cock. Depending on the design of the regulating organ, the stud is either inserted directly into the balance cock, or held by an additional component of the regulator assembly — the stud holder. The latter may be fixed or movable, allowing for easier beat adjustment.
The stud is an easy component to manufacture, whatever its design.
Its design determines the tools and steps required for its production. In all cases, the manufacturing process remains simple, and the watchmaker’s standard tools are sufficient to make it.
The stud is an easy component to manufacture. A few machining operations (turning, drilling, milling) are sufficient, involving a production cycle of only a few seconds.