Glossary

Ratchet wheel

Is a gear-like component that is located on top of the barrel. It is attached to the arbor of the barrel using a screw. When the watch is being wound, the ratchet wheel turns and helps in coiling the mainspring tightly, storing potential energy. This energy is later released to power the watch's movement. The ratchet wheel is designed to rotate in one direction only, preventing the mainspring from unwinding in the opposite direction. It is an essential part of the winding mechanism that ensures the efficient and controlled winding of the watch.