Hours antimagnetic mechanical. Anti-Magnetic Movement: Why Magnetic Fields Don't Affect Watch Accuracy

Autoquartz movement- combination of automatic and quartz movement. As a result of everyday hand movements, the generator charges the watch's mini-battery. The energy of a fully charged battery is enough for 50-100 days of uninterrupted operation of the watch.

Automatic movement- Watches with this mechanism wind up automatically. In simple mechanical watches, the spring is wound by turning the crown. The self-winding system almost eliminates this need. A metal weight in the form of a sector, fixed on the axis, rotates with any movement of the watch in space, winding the spring. The load must be heavy enough to overcome the resistance of the spring. To avoid rewinding and breakage of the mechanism, a special protective clutch is installed, which slips when the spring is wound up enough.

Automatic adjustment of movement steadiness- a term denoting the automatic adjustment of the position of the anchor relative to the escape wheel in the event of oscillations of the pendulum with an increased amplitude. Due to the precise selection of friction between the anchor, the anchor axis and the additional disk, it is possible to achieve a uniform tick-tock sound after the end of the period of oscillation of the pendulum with an increased amplitude.

Automatic night delivery sound and melody (Automatic night delivery sound)- a function on clocks with a strike, repeaters, or carillons, which allows you to turn off the sound notification of the time for the night period. It is an additional mechanism that interrupts a melody or battle.

Automatic tune changer- an additional function in repeater watches or carillons that changes the playing melody after every hour.

Academy of Independent Watch Manufacturers (Académie Horlogère des Créateurs Indépendants (AHCI)- a society founded by Svend Andersen (Svend Andersen) and Vincent Calabrese (Vincent Calabrese) in 1985. The goal of this society was the desire to revive the traditional craft art of watchmaking, equivalent to the industrial production of mechanical watches. The community is located in the commune of Wichtrach in the canton of Bern. AHCI is an international organization and currently has 36 members and 5 candidates from more than 12 different countries, who make the most various types mechanical clocks (wrist, pocket, table, musical, as well as clocks with a pendulum)

diamond- crystallized carbon, most solid in the world. Subsequently, a special cut acquires a unique brilliance and is called a diamond. Often used to decorate wristwatch tops price category.

Altimeter- a device that determines the height above sea level due to changes in atmospheric pressure. The level of atmospheric pressure affects the accuracy of the watch. With an increase in altitude and a decrease in pressure, the air resistance in the watch case decreases, the frequency of oscillations increases, and the watch begins to work ahead, “hurry”.

Shock absorbers- parts of the anti-shock system of the clockwork, designed to protect the axes of the parts of the mechanism from breakage under impulse loads.

Analog Display- Display, time using the relative movement of the marker and plate (usually hands and dial).

Analogue watch- watches in which the time indication is carried out with the help of arrows.

Anchor mechanism (anchor) (Escapement)- part of the clock mechanism, consisting of an escape wheel, a fork and a balance, and converting the energy of the mainspring into impulses transmitted to the balance to maintain a strictly defined period of oscillation, which is necessary for the uniform rotation of the gear mechanism.

Antimagnetic properties (Antimagnetic)- A type of watch that is not subject to magnetic influence.

Nonmagnetic watch- watches in which a special alloy is used to make the case, which protects the watch from magnetization.

Aperture- a small window in the dial, which shows the current date, day of the week, etc.

Applique- numbers or symbols carved from metal and attached to the dial.

Astronomical watch- watches with additional indications on the dial, showing the phases of the moon, the time of sunrise and sunset, or the movement pattern of the planets and constellations.

Atmosphere (atm.)- unit of pressure. Often used in the watch industry to indicate the level of water resistance of a watch. 1 atmosphere (1 ATM) corresponds to a depth of 10.33 meters.

Heavy duty magnets are ideal tools for scientific research. In materials science, they are used to develop complex substances with unusual properties for new electronics components. In chemistry, they are used to purify all kinds of emulsions, suspensions, gels, polymers and membranes. In medicine, magnetic resonance imaging has been saving lives for many years. human lives. The more powerful the magnet, the clearer the image of living tissue it allows you to get.

The production of high-precision mechanisms requires the impeccable organization of all technological processes.

Modern transport is the realm of strong magnetic fields. Powerful electric motors of Tesla and other electric vehicles, maglev trains, electric scooters, electric drones and other devices. Elon Musk's Hyperloop will fly in magnetic fields: he uses them for movement and levitation.

Magnetic fields surround us in everyday life. For example, their source is strong permanent magnets built into the wheel of exercise bikes, electromagnetic coils in acoustic systems, induction cookers, hobs. Even an ordinary hair dryer can become a source of magnetic fields that adversely affect the operation of the most precise mechanisms.

The Seamaster Aqua Terra > 15,000 gauss was the first to feature the OMEGA Co-Axial caliber 8508, which is capable of withstanding magnetic fields of over 15,000 gauss.

In the bunker

Watchmakers knew about this problem and dealt with it in different ways. The most common way is to place the clock mechanism inside an anti-magnetic capsule-case, similar to a Faraday cage. The disadvantage of this solution was the increased dimensions of the clock and the limitations on the power of the magnetic field - up to 1000 gauss. Such watches can withstand the proximity of weak magnetic materials, but modern magnets are deadly for them. For comparison, neodymium magnets produce a field of 10,000-14,000 gauss. There is only one way to deal with such fields: to make the entire mechanism from non-magnetic materials. First introduced in the Seamaster Aqua Terra, which withstands fields up to 15,000 gauss, this technology has taken OMEGA decades to perfect.

An important step in this direction was the release of the Si14 silicon balance spring. Silicon has incredible stability and resistance, including to magnetic fields. The second step that contributed to the development of the caliber 8508 Co-Axial movement was the creation of the axles from non-magnetic Nivagauss material. These are the axles of the balancer wheel, pallet and coaxial wheel. The steel previously used in the co-axial escapement, including the escapement fork, impulse pinion and impulse wheel, has also been replaced with non-magnetic materials. And finally, the shock absorber spring is made of amorphous metal.

All this led to the creation of OMEGA Caliber 8508, the world's first truly anti-magnetic mechanical watch movement.

Valeria Zhilyaeva September 18, 2018, 18:57

All mechanical watches are so complicated technical device, which may seem as if they began to be produced in the 21st century. In reality, this is not so. Mechanical watches have been produced for several centuries, although their device has not changed so far.

Dedicated watchmakers often compare the mechanism of their brainchild to a living being. There is some truth in this - watches are also exposed to external influences, like everything else. All kinds of shocks, temperature changes and other changes environment can negatively affect the well-coordinated mechanism.

In addition to the obvious threats, there is also a hidden one - magnetic fields . However, watchmakers have found a solution to this problem. Anti-magnetic watches were made, thanks to which it became possible to use the accessory in completely unfavorable, at first glance, conditions.

What is anti-magnetism in watches and why is it needed?

A magnetic field is a special matter that forms around a conductor when an electric current passes through it. Only the magnetic field of objects around us.

The clock may be fast or slow due to magnetic bezels in shops, refrigerators, mobile phones and other things in the environment.

If the watch is kept close to a magnet of considerable strength, it will the mechanism is ruined forever. However, there are no such magnetic fields in everyday life - mobile phone or a refrigerator, if they can harm the mechanism, then only slightly.

Much better resistance to magnetic fields quartz watch. They will start to rush or lag behind only if they are exposed to significant radiation. However, it is enough to leave a strong magnetic field, as the accessory will work and after setting it will show the exact time.

Watches for women, SL (price on the link)

However, this option is not suitable for everyone. For example, pilots, scientists and other professions have to constantly to be among the instruments that generate strong magnetic radiation. How to be in this case?

The problem was solved at the beginning of the 20th century. For people working in direct interaction with electrical appliances, special protection against magnetic fields. Now anyone can buy anti-magnetic watches at a very reasonable price.

How was the problem of the influence of the magnetic field solved?

Watchmakers knew about the existing problem of the magnetic field and fought with it in different ways. The following method became widespread - the clockwork was placed inside the anti-magnetic case.

Anti-magnetic watch under the case back

But this option was significant shortcomings:

• increase in the dimensions of the watch;
• limiting the power of the magnetic field to 1000 gauss;
• The "lethality" of modern magnets for such a mechanism - the generated field can reach 14,000 gauss.

To get rid of the influence of modern fields, it is necessary to make the entire mechanism from materials that are not susceptible to harmful influence. It took Omega several decades to realize this idea. They first created the clock, withstanding fields up to 15,000 gauss.

To create anti-magnetic watches used silicon, which is resistant to the harmful effects of devices. In addition, non-magnetic materialNivagauss. Familiar steel has been replaced by similar materials and amorphous metals. The world's first anti-magnetic movement, created by Omega, was called "caliber 8508 ».

Omega Anti-Magnetic Watches

A lot of efforts to solve the problem and create anti-magnetic watches were made by an outstanding figure in the watch industry Charles-Auguste Paillard. He made the pendulum and balance spring out of palladium. It worked and his invention was officially patented in the 1880s.

This development was actively used in the creation of new watch models. First in human history anti-magnetic wristwatches produced for mass production, steel Tissotantimagnetique. They were introduced to the market in 1933.

Tissot Antimagnetique watch

Later, in the 50s, flocks were applied new alloys to create anti-magnetic properties:

• glucidur - an alloy of beryllium, copper and iron;
• nivarox - an alloy of titanium, chromium and nickel;
• Invar is an alloy of nickel, carbon and chromium.

Since the beginning of the 60s, all well-known companies began to use mainly nivarox and glucidur.

The rapid progress of the watch world did not go unnoticed by the International Organization for Standardization. An order was issued to create uniform standards for recognizing watches as anti-magnetic.

Anti-magnetic watch models

Modern high-quality mechanical watches meet all the requirements and are able to withstand strong magnetic radiation. Prices for mechanical anti-magnetic wrist watches vary from 10,000 rubles to infinity. The cost depends on the brand, material and functionality.

Consider the legendary models of anti-magnetic accessories.

Anti-magnetic Rolex watches

Rolex manufactures watch modelMilgauss since 1954. For some time, their release was suspended, but since 2007, the accessory has reappeared on the market. The model was slightly adapted and intended for scientists working at the Large Hadron Collider.

The exact composition of the alloys used in the manufacture of anti-magnetic watches is kept in the strictest confidence and is a trade secret of the brand company.

Anti-magnetic Rolex watches

Omega anti-magnetic watch

Omega releases unusual watches Seamaster Aqua Terra > 15,000 Gauss. Initially, they were intended for ship admirals and crew. This watch works flawlessly under the influence of radiation of 15,000 gauss. And this is not the limit. Omega simply did not have the equipment that would provide more high level magnetic influence.

This is a completely anti-magnetic watch. Such a mechanism has been created for the first time in the history of mankind. Of course, the company keeps secret the composition and name of the alloys used.

Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra anti-magnetic watch

The Soviet Union also did not stand aside from the watch triumph. At the Chistopol plant "Vostok" were created wristwatch "Amphibian". The name was not chosen by chance - the watch can withstand pressure at a depth of up to 200 m. The watch was produced in the USSR on the basis of "Komandirskie" in 1967. It was a special order of the USSR Ministry of Defense. For its time, it was an innovative mechanism. There were no such watches in the Soviet Union until that moment. They were also called in the USSR anti-magnetic ship clocks with 17 stones.

Antimagnetic commander's watch of the plant "Vostok" "Amphibian"

Anti-magnetic watch "Rocket"

Raketa watch produced by the oldest Petrodvorets plant in Russia. The company was one of the first to establish mass production of wristwatches. Accessories were exported to 30 countries of the world.

The model with the 2610 movement and 21 jewels, actively produced in 1985-1987, especially distinguished itself. They were produced specifically for people working in conditions of strong magnetic fields (at power plants, ships, etc.). Anti-magnetic in this watch is the mechanism itself, as well as the plates under the dial and the case back.

Anti-magnetic watch "Rocket"

Anti-magnetic watches become real breakthrough in watchmaking. Initially, such an accessory was intended for people working in places of strong electromagnetic influence. Ordinary mechanical watches simply could not withstand radiation and became unusable.

Beginning in 1933, anti-magnetic wristwatches became available on the mass market. This permanently saved the population from the problem when the surrounding electrical appliances became the cause of the disruption of the clock.

The action of magnetic waves can negative impact to the operation of the clock mechanism, up to its complete stop. Mechanical anti-magnetic watches are devices with a case made of a special metal that can protect parts from magnetization. The magnetically protective alloy reduces the negative effect of magnetic waves on the mechanism or completely neutralizes them. As a result, the accuracy of the watch remains impeccable, and the clock mechanism acquires additional security. To reduce the level of influence of magnetic fields on the operation of the watch mechanism, special devices are used that shield magnetic waves. Such a device involves the installation of a bowl-shaped screen with a high degree of magnetic permeability into the dial. Anti-magnetic watches should function normally in the radiation range from 4400 to 4800 A/m. For additional protection, individual parts of the mechanism can be made of non-magnetizable materials: beryllium bronze for the shaft and brass for the hands.

Brief historical background

In 1980, a rare amphibious Vostok mechanical watch was created; at that time, it had the highest degree of magnetic security. In the early 1910s, Omega introduced the most anti-magnetic watch in the world, which almost completely eliminated the effect of radiation on the mechanism.

Why do you need protection against magnets at all?

If a mechanical watch is brought to a strong source of radiation, then the movement of the mechanism will simply stop, in some cases forever. But it is unlikely that anyone will think about the need to conduct such crazy experiments with their expensive gadget. However, avoiding magnetic action is actually not easy. Modern world just abounds big amount devices with a magnetic action, an electric razor, a cover for your iPad, a bag lock, a refrigerator door, a mobile phone. For residents of large cities, the problem of the constant passage of magnetic frames at railway stations, airports and large shopping centers is known. Magnets are all around us, and their presence is increasing every year, so this puts your mechanical watch in direct danger and needs extra protection.

Watches with steel cases or steel case elements use 316 L steel, which contains 10% nickel. For people who are allergic to nickel, it is better to use a nickel-free titanium watch. The hardness of glasses is determined using the Vickers test - a vertical static force of several hundred newtons is applied to the glass, by means of pressure on the glass surface with a special diamond with four faces, each of which is inclined by 22 degrees. Pressure on glass is made within 10-15 seconds. As a result, a damaged area is formed on the glass surface. And the larger this area, the less the glass is resistant to scratches and external influences. The hardness of mineral glass is 900 Vickers, and sapphire - 2100 Vickers, respectively.

Self-activated tritium illumination

Trigalight sources (technical name: GTLS, Tritium Gas Light Sources) from mb-microtec are small sealed glass tubes coated on the inside with a luminous substance. They contain small amounts of gaseous tritium. The electrons emitted by tritium cause a constant activation of the luminous substance. Produced light sources can be different colors. As a general rule, however, preference is given to green luminous matter, since within this range the receptivity of the human eye is optimal. The glass vessel is covered from the inside with a luminous substance. Then, gaseous tritium is pumped into the inside of this vessel under pressure, after which the vessel is hermetically sealed. The electrons emitted by tritium during its decay come into contact with the coating, which absorbs the electron energy and turns it into visible, so-called "cold light". The service life of our trigalight sources is more than 20 years. The so-called half-life of tritium is just over 12 years. Therefore, the backlight is guaranteed for 10 years. After this time, a decrease in brightness is observed. However, the residual brightness is significantly higher than the brightness on a new watch with normal backlighting (after just a few minutes of glowing in the dark). No. mb-microtec's trigalights produce their own light and do not need external energy sources. Yes. More than 50 watch companies buy trigalight sources from MB-microtec (the owner of the Traser brand). This affects pricing: Traser watches with similar characteristics are cheaper. It is necessary to pay attention to the number of trigalights installed on the watch dial. Some companies, in order to save money, install trigalights only on the arrows. Yes, replacement of trigalights is possible. To do this, contact the service center.

Where to buy a Traser watch

The list of official representatives is published on the website in the "Buy" section. Only in this case you get a 100% original and safe Traser watch, which is subject to the terms of the warranty and after-sales service.
Control is carried out according to the issued watch passport (the seal of Timelight LLC must be stamped) and according to the individual number.
Please note that official dealers are prohibited from selling Traser watches through E-bay and similar sites. Yes, it is possible. You can get acquainted with the terms of delivery on the website of a particular dealer.

Operating rules

The user manual for all models of Traser H3 watches can be downloaded from the site.

The "Download instructions" button is located on the description page of a specific watch model.

Pull the crown out to the far right position. Then press 2 buttons at the same time and hold them in this position until the second hand makes a complete revolution (approximately 5 seconds). Then, by short pressing the upper button, set the second hand to the 12 o'clock position. Return the crown to its original position. According to NATO military standard MIL-PRF-46374, this watch must withstand a free fall from a height of 50cm onto a 3mm thick linoleum flooring attached to a concrete slab. Swiss engineers have greatly improved impact resistance by creating a double hull system - inner steel and outer carbon. In addition, a system for protecting the mechanism from impacts is installed, and, separately, a stabilizer for the axis of the arrows. Antimagnetic - a property of the watch case and covers, which protects the parts of the mechanism from magnetization. Working near strong magnetic fields reduces the accuracy of the watch, and sometimes the watch stops completely. Anti-magnetic watches must operate in a magnetic field with a strength of 4400 to 4800 A/m. The shielding device of the watch consists of a case and a dial made of soft magnetic materials with high magnetic permeability, such as titanium, carbon, 316L steel or iron-nickel alloy. To reduce the influence of magnetic fields, the mainspring and the watch spiral are made of non-magnetic alloys: the winding shaft is made of beryllium bronze, and the hands are made of brass.
In any case, try to avoid exposing your watch to strong magnetic fields.

Warranty and service

IN this case we will replace the watch with a new one or refund the money at the request of the buyer. Warranty repair of Traser watches is carried out by authorized service centers. To this end, we will order courier delivery of watches to a service center in Moscow for examination and subsequent repair. To do this, we need the details of the contact person who will hand over the watch to the courier: full name, exact address and contact phone number.
Warranty repair (if it is not possible, the watch will be replaced) and delivery will be performed free of charge. If the cause of the malfunction is not a warranty case, then all costs for the repair and delivery of the watch will be at your expense. This will be communicated before the start of the repair.
Examination and warranty repairs will be carried out within 45 days, excluding delivery times. The battery can be replaced in any professional workshop with a mandatory check of the watch after replacing the battery for leaks. In this case, the warranty remains. In Moscow, we recommend that the battery be replaced at authorized service centers. The cost of replacing the battery is 500 rubles, for chronographs - 800 rubles. A leak test is required and is included in the price. You need to drive with the watch to the office of the Traser representative office in Russia at the address: Moscow, Mazhorov pereulok, 14, building 7 (Business Center "AVS"). A new warranty card will be issued according to the individual number of your watch. With a sharp temperature drop on the glass, light, short-term fogging is allowed without the formation of drops. In all other cases, fogging is a sign of a watch being leaking. You need to contact the service center. The watch will be tested for tightness under pressure declared by the manufacturer. If the watch does not pass the test, then this is a warranty case. If the watch is airtight, fogging has occurred as a result of a violation of the operating rules (for example, exceeding the permissible water pressure, an open crown, etc.). Watch repairs will be at the buyer's expense. Official Traser dealers are prohibited from selling watches through Ebay, Amazon and similar sites. Therefore, such watches are not subject to warranty service.