A regulator is a type of clock or watch designed for precise timekeeping, often featuring separate dials for hours, minutes, and seconds to enhance accuracy.
A regulator in watchmaking refers to a specific type of clock or watch designed for high precision timekeeping. Traditionally, regulators were used in watchmaking workshops to set and verify the accuracy of other timepieces. The defining feature of a regulator is its unique dial layout, which separates the hour, minute, and second hands onto different sub-dials. This design minimizes the potential for visual confusion and allows for more precise reading of the time. Typically, the minute hand is centrally located and prominently displayed, while the hour and second hands are placed on smaller sub-dials. This configuration aids in the accurate setting and regulation of timepieces, as it provides a clear and unobstructed view of each time unit. In modern horology, regulator watches are appreciated for their historical significance and distinctive aesthetic. They are often crafted with meticulous attention to detail, reflecting the precision and craftsmanship associated with traditional watchmaking. Collectors and enthusiasts value regulator watches for their unique design and the technical challenge they represent in achieving precise timekeeping. The regulator's legacy continues to influence contemporary watch designs, serving as a testament to the enduring quest for accuracy in horology.