Glossary

A component found in the escapement mechanism of a watch movement. It is responsible for engaging with the escape wheel, which regulates the release of energy to the watch's timekeeping mechanism. The fork consists of two curved arms that extend from a central pivot point and are designed to fit between the teeth of the escape wheel. As the balance wheel oscillates, the fork moves back and forth, interacting with the escape wheel to control the rotation and timing of the watch's gears. This precise and coordinated interaction between the fork and escape wheel is essential for the accurate and reliable timekeeping of the watch.