OVWCCC MasterClass - Common Clock Escapements

OVWCCC MasterClass - Common Clock Escapements

Session will be mentored by John Deland and Paul Sonnichsen

This workshop introduces the design, function, diagnosis, adjustment, and repair of the most common clock escapements used in domestic and workshop settings. Participants study the operating principles of verge, recoil anchor, Graham deadbeat, Brocot, and platform escapements, with image comparison to grasshopper and pin-wheel forms. The workshop combines lecture, demonstration, guided drawing, and inspection of components.

Learning Outcomes

Identify major clock escapement types and their typical applications.
Explain the functions of lock, drop, impulse, and recoil
Inspect escapement components for wear, damage, and improper action.
Set up and adjust pallet depth, crutch action, pendulum relationship, and beat.
Compare the strengths, limitations, and service needs of common escapement designs.
Carry out basic fault-finding and propose suitable corrective actions.

Tools and Materials

Beat-setting and timing aids if available
Sample movements or training rigs featuring verge, recoil, deadbeat, Brocot, and platform escapements
Drawing instruments for escapement geometry exercises
Personal notebook for sketches, measurements, and service observations

Part 1: Fundamentals of Escapement Action

 Overview of the time train, oscillator, and escapement relationship
 Core terminology: impulse, lock, drop, draw, recoil, lift, beat, and depthing
 Survey of common clock escapements and their historical development
Bench exercise: identify escapement types from sample movements and diagrams

Part 2: Verge and Recoil Anchor Escapements

Geometry and operating sequence of verge and crown-wheel escapements
Recoil anchor action, pallet engagement, and typical domestic clock use
Common faults: excessive recoil, worn pallet faces, poor depthing, uneven beat
Bench exercise: inspect and compare verge and recoil escapement action

Part 3: Graham Deadbeat Escapement
Difference between recoil and deadbeat action
Dead faces, impulse faces, and the importance of correct lock and drop
Use in regulators and precision clocks
Bench exercise: evaluate lock, drop, and impulse on a deadbeat escapement

Part 4: Brocot and Platform Escapements

Brocot escapement construction and adjustment considerations
Introduction to cylinder and lever platform escapements in clock applications
Wear patterns, jewel or pallet issues, and practical service precautions
Bench exercise: fault-finding on a Brocot or platform escapement assembly

Part 5: Adjustment, Beat Setting, and Oscillating Systems

Relationship between escapement performance and pendulum or balance system
Crutch alignment, pendulum length considerations, and suspension issues
Setting beat and confirming stable impulse delivery
Bench exercise: correct an out-of-beat condition and document the result

Part 6: Fault Diagnosis, Repair Planning, and Review

Systematic diagnosis of poor running, stoppage, shallow lock, overbanking, and wear
Repair decision-making: adjust, remake, replace, or defer

Recommended References

Technical references on clock and watch escapement mechanics, a good one is Common Clock Escapements by Laury Penman, many others
Workshop notes on deadbeat, recoil, and Brocot escapements
Historical and comparative resources on anchor, verge, grasshopper, and pin-wheel escapements

This member only event is limited to 12 students  + 2 instructors.

Registration opens May 9, 2026

Please contact us if you are a member and are experiencing difficulty with registration.

Not a member and wish to attend?

Please join the club here , before registering for the workshop

The May Club meeting will take place after the workshop, at 1:00pm