KEY
The key is the tool that was used to wind the mainspring and set the time on old clocks, wall clocks and pocket watches, before the winding mechanism with a Crown became widespread in the 19th century. It fitted onto the square of the Barrel Arbor to wind the spring, and onto that of the Motion work to adjust the hands. There are square keys, Screwdriver-keys, and various decorated models, often worn as a charm on a Fob chain. Key-wound watches required opening the Case back or turning the piece over to access the squares, which exposed the movement from dust. The invention of the Breguet winding mechanism, then of the winding stem and crown system, made the key obsolete for watches. However, it remains essential for the maintenance of clocks and is nowadays the subject of collections as an antique horological object.
Useful link:
This page has been automatically translated from the French reference version using an artificial intelligence tool. Errors or inaccuracies may remain. If you notice any, especially if this is your native language, please do not hesitate to report them to info@horopedia.org. Your contribution helps us improve the quality of the encyclopedia.
While awaiting their translation, images and videos remain temporarily displayed in French.
Thank you for your understanding.