Ceramic watch parts

Nice to have the refresher course Jack. My memory was a bit faded on this improvement / change.

I have no official information as to which models apart from ref. 5001 use these ceramic parts. Perhaps they are or will be used in most if not all of the new C50xxx calibres as they relate to the movements and not to watch models.

Just a guess.

As far as "plastic parts" used in the 7750 based movements this has been widely discussed on this and other forums. I have pointed out in one thread (which can be found with the SEARCH field that the few plastic parts used are beneficial to the performance and should not be viewed as inferior or cost-cutting moves.

Regards,
Jack

Interesting, I remember now. Why are the Pellaton-pawls chosen to be made of ceramic? Or, to put it in a slightly different way, why were the metal pawls not good enough anymore?

Kind regards,
Paul

You raised a very good and important question.

Regardless of which automatic winding system is employed in a movement, whether a Pellaton with arm clicks or conventional ball bearings, one must realize that the constant force of stress on such parts ultimately has a very critical impact on their longevity.

This is because with every motion of the wrist the person causes premature and gradual wear and tear to the automatic winding parts unless the watch is routinely maintained with recommended overhauls resulting in a clean and freshly lubricated movement.

IWC, as someone noted its engineering and technical focus, periodically reviews the performance of its calibres and often tries new improvements with specific materials used in critical parts. However, theirs is an ongoing process as there's no way to know upfront whether ceramic or any other materials is the best solution to the mentioned concerns.

I hope this explains somewhat the challenges IWC faces on a regular basis.

Regards,
Jack

Thank you Jack F and Ardoise for the pictures.

I am new to the forum and to IWC, having recently gotten the 5001-09.

Looking closer at the display back, I don't have ceramic but metal pawls.

I have a question though, there are two red discs seen in the diagram and one in the picture at the center, under the rotor hinge. On my 5001-09, under a magnifying glass, it looks to be red, yet transparent or translucent. Would it be a glass or plastic disc dyed ruby red?

Just curious and would be interested to know. Thanks in advance.

Best,
dan

@Dan,

They are synthetic rubies. Synthetic jewels are better than real in watchmaking. They are used to reduce friction at the pivot points.

Thanks Bill B. for clarifying.

Learning and enjoying this forum.

Dan

Jack, your ability to explain in plain english the whys and hows of these movements is one of the many great things about this forum. Thanks for your continued contributions.

Regards,
Kevin