Deadbeat Seconds

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(dead-beet sek-uhndz)

Deadbeat Seconds is a watch complication where the seconds hand jumps precisely once per second, mimicking the behavior of quartz movements.

What Does

Deadbeat Seconds

Mean?

Deadbeat Seconds is a horological complication where the second hand of a mechanical watch moves in discrete, one-second increments, similar to the ticking motion of a quartz watch. Unlike the continuous sweeping motion seen in most mechanical watches, deadbeat seconds create a stop-start effect, making each second distinctly visible. This feature is achieved through a complex mechanism that involves a secondary escapement, which releases energy at precise one-second intervals. The deadbeat seconds complication is considered a technical feat in watchmaking, showcasing the watchmaker's skill and craftsmanship. It is also known as "jumping seconds" or "seconde morte" in French, and it adds a unique visual and mechanical element to a timepiece, often appreciated by horology enthusiasts for its precision and the challenge it presents in its construction.

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