An explanation of the terms we use (A-Z)

We are building this section a little at a time. Please contact us if you find a term on the website we need to explain more clearly.

Arabic (as in numeral): Without probably realising it, 90% of all clocks and watches we check in our dialy life have dials laid out with Roman Numerals. During the early 20th C, there was a fashion to use "normal' numbers which are referred to here as arabic numerals.

Escapement (describing a clock movement): The escapement defines the part of the clock movement that controls the timekeeping. It gets its name because it does its job by letting the power (in the spring or from a falling weght) to 'escape'. See also Anchor, Platform and Deadbeat

False Plate: Many movements are fixed directly to the dial. Others use a false plate, which is an additional steel or iron plate used between the movement and the dial. The dial and the movement are joined at the false plate. It has a number of benefits, the principal being is gave the clockmaker more choice and space as to where to locate the dial's feet. Beware: Falseplates are often used to 'marry' movements and dials that did not start life together.

Sleepy (as in condition): We often use the term sleepy when we are trying to convey the condition of many items we acquire. It attempts to describe an untouched and 'not messed amout with' quality. The item may have faults but they will not stop the item being used (unless stated) and probably won't be noticed once you become used to living with the item. Most items displayed in the shop are restored to survive harsh examination under the spotlights.

Platform escapement (describing a clock movement): To follow

Timepiece (in a clock description): We've alwas found this a bit strange but technically a 'clock' must sound (strike or chime) the time. A 'clock' that doesn't sound the hours is actually a 'timepiece'. They were often used in libraries and offices.