Watch Glossary and Terms with Images

E ImagesEbaucheFrench term (but commonly used in English-speaking countries) for a movement blank, i.e. an incomplete watch movement which is sold as a set of loose parts, comprising the main plate, the bridges, the train, the winding and setting mechanism and the regulator. The timing system, the escapement and the mainspring, however, are not parts of the "ébauche".EnamelA vitreous substance whose main component is silica mixed with oxides (transition metals) that create a vast palette of colours. Enamel is used to decorate metal su***ces, in particular gold, silver and copper. Translucent enamel allows the passage of more or less light, for example the opalescent enamels that give a sought-after milky quality to certain pieces.A regatta dial (see complication) has a countdown function enabling competitors to position themselves as near as possible to the starting line in the minutes leading up to the race. An orienteering dial (see complication) features a hand which, driven by a specific wheel and *** one complete revolution of the dial in 24 hours, shows North when the hour hand is pointed towards the Sun. A diving dial (see complication) indicates su***cing time and possibly also decompression stops and times.Direct-drive(in French: trotteuse) Refers to a seconds-hand, especially a centre seconds-hand, that moves forwards in little jerks.DisplayIndication of time or other data, either by means of hands moving over a dial (analogue display) or by means of numerals appearing in one or more windows (digital or numerical display); these numerals may be completed by alphabetical indications (alphanumerical display) or by signs of any other kind. For example: 12.05 MO 12.3 = 12 hours, 5 minutes, Monday 12th March. Such displays can be obtained by mechanical electronic means.