PUSHERS AND CORRECTORS
Similar to the crown, pushers and correctors are control elements that allow the watch user to activate or adjust peripheral functions of the base movement. Their tubes are screwed or set around the circumference of the case, much like the crown tube.
The head of the pusher is prominent, and it can be actuated with a simple pressing of the finger. An integrated spring then returns it to its initial position.
Pushers are generally used to actuate a mechanism (chronograph, time zone change, etc.). Like the crown, a pusher can be screwed onto its tube for improved watch waterproofing. Furthermore, when the pusher is screwed in, it is locked, preventing any unintentional operation. Operating in a linear and non-rotational motion, the pusher head can have various shapes (round, rectangular, oval, etc.).
The corrector is flush with the case band. Unlike the pusher, it requires the use of a tool (corrector tool) to be operated. However, it enhances the watch’s ergonomics and aesthetics and cannot be accidentally operated. This is why it is preferred over the pusher for adjusting many functions, especially calendar functions. Correcting a calendar function while its mechanism is engaged (before and after midnight) can risk damaging several components.
When a pusher or corrector is operated, the mobile part slides inside the fixed tube, which is integral to the case. The inner end of the pusher or corrector activates a lever aligned with the pusher’s position, transmitting the command to the movement.
The visible and external part of a pusher or corrector can be made from a wide range of materials. According to the designer’s preferences, they are usually coordinated or in contrast with the case material. Overmolding, composite materials, and ceramics have become commonplace. The non-visible components of pushers and correctors are generally made from materials suited to their requirements (steel or gold).
The use of pushers and later correctors became widespread between the late 18th and early 19th centuries with the advent of the first chronographs. This new way of controlling a third-party mechanism quickly found other applications such as calendars or watches with multiple time zones.
The first waterproof pushers appeared during the first half of the 20th century. Waterproofing was not guaranteed when pushing the button while the watch was submerged. It was not until the second half of the 20th century that pushers and correctors became waterproof and functional under water.
Like crowns, pushers and correctors are generally produced by specialized subcontractors. However, artisans can craft relatively simple pushers and correctors using a lathe, milling machine, or an automatic lathe. For more complex pushers or better cost control, artisans may acquire standard or custom technical components from specialized subcontractors and only produce the aesthetic cap.
The majority of pushers and correctors are produced on an industrial scale by specialized subcontractors. In this method, turning is the preferred technique. Pushers and their various components fit perfectly within the dimensions and operations suitable for automatic lathe. Techniques such as electro-erosion or stamping can be used for decorating the pusher head or setting a logo medallion. Once machined, the head of a pusher is decorated (diamond-cutting, satin finishing, microblasting, gem setting, etc.) and then assembled.
New technologies here exclusively concern the aesthetic part of a pusher (its cap). New materials (plastics, composites, ceramics) or vulcanized rubber overmolds involve the latest technologies in terms of injection, machining, and assembly.