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The Science of Escapements: The Heartbeat of Mechanical Clocks Discover how clock escapement mechanisms work, their role in accurate timekeeping, and why they’re the unsung heroes of mechanical clocks and watches. Clock Escapement Mechanisms: The Heartbeat of Timekeeping When you look at a clock, what you see is just the surface—the hands, the numbers, and maybe a pendulum swinging back and forth. But the real magic happens inside, in a tiny yet crucial component called the  escapement mechanism . This ingenious device is the heartbeat of mechanical clocks, ensuring they keep accurate time. Let’s take a closer look at how it works and why it’s so important. What Is an Escapement Mechanism? An escapement is a device in mechanical clocks and watches that controls the release of energy from the clock’s power source (like a spring or weights) to the timekeeping element (like a pendulum or balance wheel). It’s what makes the ticking sound in a clock and ensures that the hands move at a ...