George Daniels has died

[RWG Technical]

If you don't know who he was, you should...

The leading horologist of the 20th century has died at 85, a great loss.

His legacy will live on with Omega.

Sad day for sure.

[coolfire]

Sad day indeed. Was wearing my SMP Co-Axial earlier in the day.

RIP George.

[PeteM]

A great loss indeed

I thought this video of one of his best achievements might help those who dont know.... because of his work on this he recieved the Tompion Medal.. a rare honour

[zaza]

A great loss indeed

RIP Geo.

[Watchmeister]

Had no idea who he was before this thread but that co-axial video says it all. That is one of the major achievements in horology.

[Jkay]

From the videos, it is clear to me what a co-axial escapement is ... but why it better?

[calatrava]

There is an article about the co-axial escapement on Timezone:

http://www.timezone.com/library/horologium/horologium631670193290479607

In essence, the geometry of the co-axial escapement is such that it minimizes the dragging of the pallet stones on the escapement teeth, thereby reducing wear and the need for lubrication.

[Bike Mike]

Great lost indeed to the watch making community of the World.

@Jkay, the big advantage other then reduction of fricction, with the Co-Axial escapment is that during the arc travel of the balance, there is less contact between the impulse stone and the pallet fork, thus providing more more efficient use of power.

[Jkay]

Thanks for those clarifications.

[dluddy]

Sad day indeed. Who will be the next innovator?

[krpster]

RIP Mr. Daniels.